You are looking for the best loan. What should you consider in your search for the right one? Given two choices – a 12-month loan with zero percent interest rate or a 5 year loan with 5 percent interest per annum – which is the better choice? For some people, this is a no-brainer and would readily pick the loan with zero interest.
However, those who understand the nuances and dynamics of loans and credits would take into account their circumstances when making their choices. For instance, you would probably choose the 12-month loan with zero interest if you can afford to pay it back after 12 months. On the other hand, if your current cash position will not allow you to repay the loan within that period, then you have no other option but to go for the 5-year loan at 5 percent interest. It is obviously more expensive than the other loan, but it is the more appropriate for your situation.
Failure to pay a ‘cheap’ loan can be more damaging than having to pay more for a loan with longer repayment period. You need to consider the intangibles when you make your decision. Failure to make timely payments can affect your credit rating. In addition to this, you may also have to pay penalty fees for ‘cheap’ loans that are not paid on time. If you insist on getting a cheap loan even if it is not the appropriate option given your financial situation, then you may end up paying more than what you would have to pay for a ‘more expensive’ loan.
Carefully assess your financial situation and work on the numbers before you make your final choice. What is right for others may not necessarily be the best option for you. Take stock of your long term financial prospects and decide whether it is best for you to take out a short term or long term loan. Of course, when you decide to take out a loan, it is necessary that you do some serious house cleaning. Make sure that you allocate the funds needed to pay off the loan when it becomes due.
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