Auto financing for people with bad credit can be done today, if you know how to go about it. Many people think it is impossible to get auto financing if your credit score is less than perfect but this is not necessarily true.
In fact, now days more than ever there are lenders who specialize in auto financing for people with bad credit. Begin by taking a couple steps to prepare yourself.
You Will Want To Prepare Before Going To The Dealership
First, do what you can to clean up your credit report. After obtaining copies from all three credit bureaus check them for inaccuracies. If you find errors, contact the bureau and tell them that you have a dispute. They will further instruct you on how to have these mistakes removed.
Next put some paperwork together that will help you with the pre-approval process. Being pre-approved can give you a better picture of where you are at, how much you can afford and what you can handle for monthly payments.
You will need proof of income, proof of insurance, proof of residency and your driver’s license. One additional item you may be requested to furnish is a few references, include name number and address for 2 to 3 people who know you well.
Examine your finances and see what you will be able to easily afford every month. Take an honest look at the monies coming in versus the monies going out.
Now do an online search for an auto loan calculator. Follow the easy instructions and punch in the numbers they request. The calculator will do the math for you in determining the monthly payment.
You Will Want To Shop For A Dealer Who Offers Special Financing For People With Bad Credit
Now that you are prepared it is time to do a little shopping. Call a few local dealerships and ask if they have anyone that works with auto financing for people with bad credit. Sometimes dealers have a team of a couple auto consultants that really understand what it takes to get an auto loan for those that have bruised or damaged credit.
Auto consultants work for you and most likely will do everything possible to get you into a car that makes sense for you and your circumstances. So, when you call be sure to get a firm “yes” that they do have someone that understands special financing.
If they do not you may want to consider calling the next on your list.
Once You Find Someone You Will Want To Make The Deal
Once you have determined a dealership that you want to work with, sit down with the salesperson and discuss the numbers. Remember that there is almost always room for negotiating so make sure you feel confident you have gotten the best possible price for the car.
You may not have as much wiggle room with the interest rate; most often the interest rates will be slightly higher than conventional loans. (Note here, remember that after a year or so of good payment history, you may be able to refinance at a lower interest rate.)
Before signing on the dotted line, be sure that you completely understand all the figures on the agreement and ask if you are unclear about something. You want to feel comfortable that everything is in order and that you thoroughly understand what you are signing.
