When financing a classic car purchase, your best option is to choose a specialty lender that deals with classic cars and collector cars. You will likely find a better interest rate, longer loan terms, and go through less work than if you choose a typical lender. This article will show you how to finance a classic car purchase, and what pitfalls to look out for.
The main reason to shop around specialty car loan lenders is the less hassle you will have to go through. These lenders deal with classic and collector car loans all the time, and they can help guide you through the purchase. Standard lenders sometimes use Kelley Blue Book or NADA price guides for classic cars and that just won't work, especially for hot rods and other customs or special editions. Having original parts and other unique options on a collector car can add value, and specialty lenders understand this. Specialty lenders can also extend the loan term, sometimes up to 12 to 15 years depending on the amount being requested. Typical auto lenders generally go up to five years.
Before you even start the loan process, you will want to check your credit score. If your FICA score is around 600 or lower, you may have a difficult time getting a loan. Anything in the 600's and you may qualify, but you may have a higher interest rate. Anything above 700 and you should have no problems securing a loan, plus you will get the added benefit of having a lower interest rate. Any lender will require 20% down on a classic car loan, and usually 30% for a hot rod.
Most specialty lenders do not require you to have a car ready for purchase before applying for the loan. You generally have 30 to 60 days after being approved to find a car, otherwise you may need to go through the approval process again. When determining the loan amount, do not forget about hidden costs of purchasing a collector car. Odds are, especially if you are looking for a certain model, color, option, etc. that you will not find it in your area. The internet can be a great tool in helping you find the exact car you are looking for, but that car is probably in another state or region, requiring travel and transportation. You may want to travel to see the car, which will cost money, and you will need to transport it back if you do not want to drive it. Depending on how far away the car is, driving it may not be an option due to strict insurance restrictions. All this may be able to be rolled into the loan amount. Talk to your lender about these options.
Many lenders require an inspection of the car by a qualified inspector. The lender will be able to help with this, since they probably have certain inspectors they require you to use. Many buyers choose to have their car inspected before purchase anyhow, so make sure you talk to the lender before deciding on an inspection company. If the inspector you choose is not certified by your lender, you may be required to purchase another inspection, costing hundreds of dollars more.
Even if you have the money saved to buy a collector car outright, it may be in your best interest to pursue a classic car loan. Over the last 15 to 20 years, the value of collector and classic cars have gone up sharply, sometimes 10% or more a year. Considering a classic car loan is probably 6% or so, this makes borrowing the money an investment. But be careful during these economic down times and do your research. Rare and original models are still going up in value, but clones and other mid models are not rising in value as fast as they once did. This could change at anytime though.
There is no better feeling than driving around in your new classic car. Hopefully this article will help you in securing a low interest loan, and speed up the process so you can drive around town in your new ride, rather than dealing with headaches you may have by going through a typical lending company.
If you are considering the purchase of your first car or even your next vehicle if you're not a first time car buyer, you may be concerned about the prospect of financing your vehicle. This concern is not totally unfounded. There are numerous pitfalls that can occur when financing a new vehicle, especially if you plan to use dealership financing. In order to avoid running into these problems, and possibly stalling your purchase read the tips below.
First, understand exactly how important your credit score is to your auto loan application. Even when working with a dealership loan department, be aware that your credit history will be run and your credit score will have a major impact on your ability to obtain an auto loan as well as the terms you are offered. Ideally, it is best to stay on top of things and get an idea of the condition of your credit history yourself before you even step foot into the dealership. Look to make sure there are no errors on there that could be dragging down your score. If your credit score is not in great condition and it is not due to errors, consider delaying the purchase of a vehicle until you can clean it up by paying down some other debts and improving your bill payment schedule; both of which will help to raise your credit score. Remember, a low credit score can prevent you from getting a better interest rate as well as the loan itself.
Many people make a list before they go shopping to ensure they won't spend more than they intended. A similar technique can help to ensure you won't spend more than you can afford while car shopping. Make a list of what you're looking for in a vehicle, the features that are important to you and set a price range you can afford to spend. Keep in mind that you should not plan to spend more than 20% of your monthly income.
Take the time to do your research and understand current interest rates as well as the price range for the features you have determined are important to you. This will help you to be better educated and less likely to be taken advantage of when it comes time to discuss terms of the loan.
Be aware of your options. Find out whether any rebates or special offers are available for the cars that interest you.
Never, ever sign anything unless you have gone over the purchase contract with a fine tooth comb. Far too often, extraneous charges will be tacked on that may not be really necessary. If you're not sure of the reason for a charge, ask before you agree to pay it.
Don't allow yourself to be pressured into anything. If you need more time to think, take it. Walk out of the dealership, think about it and make your decision on your own time. Salesmen are excellent at driving up the pressure and creating an inflated sense of ?time is of the essence? but that doesn't mean you have to fall for it.
By doing your research ahead of time, knowing what you want and what you can afford to pay for it while maintaining a cool head you will be in a better position to purchase the car you want without running into any pitfalls that could cost you big in the long run.
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