Compare Loans and Check Eligibility
Whether you need a personal loan to cover unexpected home repairs, a car finance loan to get you back on the road, or a wedding loan for your dream wedding, understanding the loan market is key to securing the best loan for your situation.
Let’s explore the specifics of comparing loans and checking your eligibility so you can be prepared for whatever life throws your way.
- Simple, easy application
- We search lenders to get you the best deal
- 5-star customer service
- No impact on your credit score
- No upfront fees or hidden charges
Are you a homeowner or a tenant?
What is a loan?
At its core, a loan is a financial lifeline. It’s money borrowed from a lender with a promise to pay it back over time, usually with interest.
When you take out a loan, you’re entering into an agreement with a lender. This could be a bank, a credit union, or an online lender. The loan comes with specific terms and conditions that outline the interest rate, monthly repayment schedule, and any additional fees.
For instance, you might encounter terms like APR (Annual Percentage Rate), which reflects the total cost of borrowing on a yearly basis (more on this later), or fixed and variable interest rates, which determine how your monthly payments might change over time.
Each type of loan serves a different purpose:
- A personal loan might be your go-to for covering medical bills or funding a wedding
- A guarantor loan could be ideal if you have a less-than-perfect credit score and need someone to back you up.
- Car finance loans are tailored specifically for purchasing vehicles, offering structured repayment plans that align with your budget.
Essentially, when it comes to loans, it’s all about finding the right fit for your personal circumstances.
And then there are the eligibility criteria you need to meet to be able to borrow money. Lenders will typically look at your credit score, income, and existing debt to decide if you qualify for a loan. But more on that later.
First, let’s take a closer look at the types of loans you could apply for.
No hassle or headaches.
We’ve developed our own advanced technology platform to help get your quote quickly – and your money could be with you in just ten days.
- Loans from £10,000 to £500,000
- Lowest interest rates available
- All credit profiles considered
- As a leading Credit Broker and not a lender we search a panel of lenders
- Fixed and variable terms available
- 5 Star customer service awarded by our customers
“At Believe Money, we prioritise your financial well-being. Our goal is to match you with the best loan options tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.”
Ian Johnson Director at Believe Money Group
Types of loan
Here’s a quick rundown of the types of loans available through Believe Money to help you understand the different options available:
Personal Loans
Personal loans are a go-to for many because they don’t require you to put up any security. You can use them for almost anything—consolidating debt, medical expenses, or funding a holiday. They come with fixed interest rates and set repayment terms, making budgeting straightforward.
Secured Loans
Secured loans, which require security like your home or car, usually offer lower interest rates because the security reduces the lender’s risk. They are ideal for borrowing larger amounts.
Guarantor Loans
If your credit score isn’t great, a guarantor loan might be your best bet. Guarantor loans are a type of personal loan where a friend or family member guarantees to repay the loan if you can’t. This can be a good option if you have a poor credit score, as the guarantor’s credit rating can help secure better terms.
No Credit Check Loans
As the name suggests, no credit check loans don’t require a credit check. They can be appealing if you have bad credit, but they often come with higher interest rates and fees to offset the increased risk to the lender.
Emergency Loans
Emergency loans provide quick access to funds for urgent needs, such as unexpected vet bills or car repairs. They often come with higher interest rates due to the immediacy of the funds.
Home Improvement Loans
Are you looking to renovate or upgrade your home? Home improvement loans can fund these projects, whether it’s a new kitchen or an extension. Depending on the amount and your credit situation, they can be secured or unsecured.
Bad Credit Loans
If your credit history is less than stellar, bad credit loans can still provide the funds you need. These loans typically have higher interest rates but can be a vital option when other loans aren’t available.
“We understand that everyone’s financial journey is different. That’s why we offer a range of products, from personal loans to secure loans, to help you achieve your goals.”
Richard Earl
Loan calculator: How much can I borrow?
Before you apply for a loan, take some time to understand your borrowing power. A loan calculator is a handy tool that helps estimate how much you can borrow based on your income, expenses, and current debts.
It factors in the loan term and interest rate to provide a clearer picture of your potential monthly repayments and overall borrowing costs.
Understanding Borrowing Costs
This includes:
- Principal: The amount you originally borrowed.
- Interest: The cost of borrowing the principal amount. Your interest rate and the loan term determine this.
- Fees: Some loans come with additional fees, such as origination fees, which can be factored into your calculations.
How much would you like to borrow?
The longer the loan term, the less you pay each month - but you will end up paying more interest.
Representative Example of a Loan
If, for example, you borrow £10,000 over 5 years (60 months) at an Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of 3.9%, the total amount payable could be £11,032. This includes £1,032 in interest and assumes 60 monthly repayments of £183.87.- Loan Amount: £10,000
- Interest Rate: 3.9%
- Loan Term: 5 years
- Monthly Payment: £183.87
- Total Interest Paid: £1,032
- Total Repaid: £11,032
What can you get a loan for?
Whether you’re planning a major life event, tackling unexpected expenses, or investing in your future, there’s likely a loan designed to meet your needs:
Home Improvements
From renovating your kitchen to adding an extra bedroom, loans can help finance home improvement projects that make your living space more comfortable and potentially increase your property value.
Debt Consolidation
Struggling with multiple debts? A debt consolidation loan can combine them into a single payment, potentially lowering your overall interest rate and simplifying your finances.
Major Purchases
Whether you’re buying a new car, funding a holiday, or purchasing expensive electronics, a loan can spread the cost of major purchases over time.
Emergencies
Unexpected bills, car repairs, or urgent home repairs can be stressful. A personal loan can provide quick access to funds in emergencies.
Will I be accepted when I apply for a loan?
It’s normal to feel nervous about taking on debt, especially when you’re unsure about your chances of approval. Lenders consider several factors to determine your eligibility for a loan, from your credit score to your income level.Let’s break down what lenders look for and how you can increase your likelihood of acceptance:
Credit Score
Your credit score plays a huge role. It’s a numerical representation of your creditworthiness, influenced by your credit history, including past loans, credit card usage, and payment history.
Having a higher score generally improves your chances of approval. To find out your score, you can check your credit file on credit rating companies like Experian, Equifax, Clearscore etc.
Income and Employment Status
Lenders want to know you have a steady income to be able to repay the loan. They may require proof of employment or regular income, such as pay slips or bank statements.
Existing Debt
Your current debt levels and your debt-to-income ratio (the percentage of your income that goes toward debt repayments) are key. Unfortunately, high existing debt can reduce your borrowing capacity.
Loan Purpose
It might sound odd, but sometimes, the purpose of the loan can influence approval. For instance, home improvement loans might be viewed more favourably than loans for non-essential purchases.
“Transparency and trust are the cornerstones of our service. We’re here to guide you through every step, ensuring you make informed decisions.”
Ian
How can I get approved for a loan?
Boosting your chances of loan approval involves a few strategic steps:
Improve Your Credit Score
As we touched on above, improving your credit score will always work in your favour. Paying bills on time, reducing outstanding debts, and avoiding new credit applications can all help improve your credit score.
We recommend you regularly check your credit report for any errors because they can and do happen, and you don’t want something that isn’t your fault being held against you. Always dispute any inaccuracies and make sure they’re remedied swiftly.
Provide Accurate Information
Make sure all the information you provide on your loan application is accurate and complete. Inaccurate details can delay the process or lead to rejection.
Choose the Right Loan
We’ve said it before, but pick a loan that matches your financial situation. Don’t overstretch yourself to the point of having to take out another loan to repay the first one.
Use a loan calculator to understand your potential repayments and prevent overborrowing.
Offer Security
For secured loans, offering valuable security can improve your chances of approval and might get you a lower interest rate.
Am I Eligible to get a Loan?
Eligibility criteria can vary between lenders, but generally, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a UK resident
- Have a regular income
- Possess a valid bank account
Specific loans might have additional requirements, such as a minimum credit score or collateral. For more information, speak to your loan broker.
Ready to Take Control of Your Finances?
Loans don’t have to be overwhelming. With the right information, understanding your options and knowing your eligibility, you can confidently choose the best loan for your needs and goals.
At Believe Money, our specialist finance brokers are here to help you find the perfect loan tailored to your situation. As a leading Credit Broker, we can help you secure a loan £5,000 to £500,000, all credit profiles considered.
Ready to take the next step?
Frequently asked questions
Do you need good credit to take out a loan?
Good credit can help you secure better loan terms, but it’s not always necessary. At Believe Money, we offer options for those with less-than-perfect credit, such as guarantor loans and bad credit loans. These options can provide access to funds even if your credit score isn’t ideal, though they may come with higher interest rates.
How much loan can I borrow?
The amount you can borrow depends on factors like your income, expenses, and credit history. At Believe Money, we have access to a range of loan products, from small personal loans to large secured loans. Use our loan calculator to get an estimate based on your financial situation.
Can I overpay or pay my loan off early?
Loan terms vary widely. Personal loans typically range from one to seven years, while mortgages can extend up to 30 years. Short-term options like bridging loans are also available for immediate financial needs.
What happens if I miss a loan repayment?
Missing a repayment can lead to late fees, increased interest rates, and a negative impact on your credit score. If you’re having trouble making a payment, contact Believe Money immediately. We can discuss options such as adjusting your payment plan and your fixed monthly payments to help you manage.
What can happen if you are unable to repay a loan?
If you can’t repay a loan, the lender may take legal action to recover the debt. For secured loans, this could mean repossessing the security, like your home or car. This will also severely impact your credit score. It’s important to communicate with us if you’re struggling, as we can help explore alternative solutions.
What is APR?
APR, or Annual Percentage Rate, reflects the total cost of borrowing over a year, including interest and fees. It provides a more comprehensive understanding of the loan’s cost compared to just the interest rate alone. A lower APR usually means a cheaper loan.
Does interest rate affect APR?
Yes, the interest rate is a significant part of APR, but APR also includes other fees and charges related to the loan. This makes APR a more accurate measure of the loan’s total cost, allowing for better comparison between different loan offers.
We compare loans from our panel of the UK’s top lenders to get you the best deal.
BELIEVE
Mon – Thursday 9am – 7:30pm
Friday 9am – 3pm
Call from a mobile or Landline:
