Sunday, October 30, 2005
Debt Management Brings a Significant Change in Debt Scenario
Have you ever thought what would be the consequence of uncontrolled expenditure? While the desire to purchase continues to be unsatisfied, the income base gives up much earlier. The result is debts. Debts up to a certain level are admissible. Debts need to be managed to keep them within this level. The process involving the use of several techniques to curb the amount of debts is known as debt management.
Outside agencies may not always be the ones who carry out debt management. In fact, the first step towards debt management, i.e. accepting that debts are a menace, is taken by the borrower himself. This is an important step because no amount of debt management tips will be little helpful if the borrower does not have enough motivation to bring about a change in his financial situation.
Debt management help, for debts on a smaller scale require more participation of the individual himself. For debts that are not large and where the step is more of a preventive nature, debt management will include suggesting tips. One or two face-to-face sessions is what will be required. Along with the suggestions, debt management agencies will also tell about the problems that the individuals will face while incorporating the debt management tips. The individual himself has to employ the debt management tips. All the debt management agency would do is provide a helping hand whenever the individual falters.
Debt management on a smaller scale is known as debt counselling. The tips that are offered to curb the debts form a part of the ancient wisdom that is handed from generation to generation. The idea is to remind individuals of the knowledge. The following constitute the major debt management techniques adopted at this stage:
*There must be a restricted expenditure proportionately to the income.
*If possible, individuals must try to augment their income to suffice the additional expenses.
*If a debt is incurred, it must be repaid or proper preparations must be made for its repayment.
These and several other debt management tips will be offered to help bring about a real change in debt scenario. This will require patience and perseverance on the part of the borrower. Debt counselling can be a long drawn process. However, instead of creating cosmetic changes or a temporary healing of the debts as in debt consolidation loans and mortgages, debt counselling has a long-term effect on the individual's debt scenario.
Nevertheless, the importance of debt consolidation loans and mortgages as a debt management tool cannot be discounted. When standing on the edge of bankruptcy, it will be imperative to clear the huge mound of debts already incurred. Once the finances regain health, only then should debt counselling be practiced. Situations like the one discussed above require an instant solution to debts and not a protracted one. Debt consolidation loans ensure the fastest release from the debts.
Debt consolidation loan is a personal loan that is employed to settle the debts. For the purpose of ease in settlement, all debts taken from several lenders are consolidated. The total of the debts is the correct measure of the amount of debt consolidation loan that must be drawn. The entire debt consolidation loan may not be consumed by the debts. It depends on the way debt settlement is negotiated. This is the reason why it is very necessary to engage the services of a proper debt consolidation agency. One of the principal distinguishing features of debt consolidation loans is that the loan provider helps in the settlement of debts. There is an active participation of the loan provider. In this method of debt management, the role of borrower ends once he presents the list of debts to be settled.
Debt consolidation mortgages, another popular debt management tool, is a second mortgage that includes certain debts in an existing mortgage. As in a debt consolidation loan, the borrowers will not be helped in settlement of debts. However, the advantage of this method is that debts are settled at the rate of a mortgage. Home equity loans also offer this advantage to the borrowers even though help from the loan provider may be absent.
Whatever be the method of debt management adopted, it must be effective towards debts. The ultimate aim of debt management must be to find a long lasting solution for debts. This can be brought about only by increasing awareness for the bad effects of debts and taking the necessary steps to curb them.
Outside agencies may not always be the ones who carry out debt management. In fact, the first step towards debt management, i.e. accepting that debts are a menace, is taken by the borrower himself. This is an important step because no amount of debt management tips will be little helpful if the borrower does not have enough motivation to bring about a change in his financial situation.
Debt management help, for debts on a smaller scale require more participation of the individual himself. For debts that are not large and where the step is more of a preventive nature, debt management will include suggesting tips. One or two face-to-face sessions is what will be required. Along with the suggestions, debt management agencies will also tell about the problems that the individuals will face while incorporating the debt management tips. The individual himself has to employ the debt management tips. All the debt management agency would do is provide a helping hand whenever the individual falters.
Debt management on a smaller scale is known as debt counselling. The tips that are offered to curb the debts form a part of the ancient wisdom that is handed from generation to generation. The idea is to remind individuals of the knowledge. The following constitute the major debt management techniques adopted at this stage:
*There must be a restricted expenditure proportionately to the income.
*If possible, individuals must try to augment their income to suffice the additional expenses.
*If a debt is incurred, it must be repaid or proper preparations must be made for its repayment.
These and several other debt management tips will be offered to help bring about a real change in debt scenario. This will require patience and perseverance on the part of the borrower. Debt counselling can be a long drawn process. However, instead of creating cosmetic changes or a temporary healing of the debts as in debt consolidation loans and mortgages, debt counselling has a long-term effect on the individual's debt scenario.
Nevertheless, the importance of debt consolidation loans and mortgages as a debt management tool cannot be discounted. When standing on the edge of bankruptcy, it will be imperative to clear the huge mound of debts already incurred. Once the finances regain health, only then should debt counselling be practiced. Situations like the one discussed above require an instant solution to debts and not a protracted one. Debt consolidation loans ensure the fastest release from the debts.
Debt consolidation loan is a personal loan that is employed to settle the debts. For the purpose of ease in settlement, all debts taken from several lenders are consolidated. The total of the debts is the correct measure of the amount of debt consolidation loan that must be drawn. The entire debt consolidation loan may not be consumed by the debts. It depends on the way debt settlement is negotiated. This is the reason why it is very necessary to engage the services of a proper debt consolidation agency. One of the principal distinguishing features of debt consolidation loans is that the loan provider helps in the settlement of debts. There is an active participation of the loan provider. In this method of debt management, the role of borrower ends once he presents the list of debts to be settled.
Debt consolidation mortgages, another popular debt management tool, is a second mortgage that includes certain debts in an existing mortgage. As in a debt consolidation loan, the borrowers will not be helped in settlement of debts. However, the advantage of this method is that debts are settled at the rate of a mortgage. Home equity loans also offer this advantage to the borrowers even though help from the loan provider may be absent.
Whatever be the method of debt management adopted, it must be effective towards debts. The ultimate aim of debt management must be to find a long lasting solution for debts. This can be brought about only by increasing awareness for the bad effects of debts and taking the necessary steps to curb them.
Debt relief 101: Understanding your options and avoiding the scams
The total consumer debt in the United States has ballooned to over two trillion dollars a full 100% greater than it was just a decade ago. As a result more people than are in need of debt relief services. But like with all burgeoning industries, there are a number of scams and ineffectiveness in many debt relief services. As a result, it is important that consumers considering debt relief know their options.
Debt Consolidation
The most well-known form of debt relief is debt consolidation. The principle behind debt consolidation is that by combining the many small debts, many of which are very high interest such as credit cards, under a single lower interest loan, you can get control of your debt. Under the single lower interest loan, the overall cost of servicing the debt, that is your total monthly payment, is lower than the combined total of the many smaller debts. That at least is the theory behind all debt consolidation programs.
Many programs go further, however, by limiting your discretionary spending. The theory goes, that because you have accumulated so much debt through your own uncontrolled spending, the debt consolidation lender will in effect act as your accountant too. The limitations placed on you by debt relief programs range from prohibiting major purchases like as a new car or home, all the way to those organizations which take your paycheck before you get it, and then dole out to you the remainder. While the latter version sounds intrusive, and certainly it is, it may prove for some individuals the best option as it will force a rationing of discretionary spending. But one thing you can count on with almost every debt consolidation program is the requirement that you cut up all of your credit cards. As credit is the number one contributor to consumer debt today, that isn't all that bad of an idea.
Creditor Negotiations
But debt consolidation isn't the only option available to those in debt crisis. Another option is to hire a creditor negotiator. These services, usually under the name debt management or debt managers, mediate negotiations between you and your creditors in the hope of lowering your total debt. In effect, these individuals bargain with your creditors, threatening them with the possibility of you seeking bankruptcy (in which case they get almost nothing) to try to get them to lower the interest rate, or the principle of your debt. This can be a very effective method for those unable or hesitant to secure a new larger debt through a debt consolidation loan.
The problem with both of these options is that they do not come for free. While many organizations present themselves as non-profit or even public servants, the reality is that almost every agency is in business because of the profits they can make off of you. For example, many individuals in need of debt consolidation are so thankful to find a willing lender that promises to lower their monthly payment, that they fail to examine closely the loan contract they are offered.
The Negatives and Scams of Debt Relief Programs
A common scam is to hide huge "service fees" or "debt consolidation fees" in the principle of the loan. So, if for example you have $50,000 in outstanding debt, your debt consolidation lender may provide you with a loan as high as $80,000, where the extra $30,000 is comprised almost entirely of fees. The lender then extends the loan out for years and years, so that your monthly payment is actually lower and as a result you do not ask any questions. Another, even more devious scam is to vary the interest rate over the life of the debt consolidation loan. For example, the lender might offer you a loan in which for the first two years the interest rate is an extremely low percentage, say 4%. But very quickly, the interest rate balloons to something like 15% at which point you will no longer be able to make payments and must go back to the lender and "consolidate your debt" once again. But debt consolidation lenders are not the only one's trying to scam you. Creditor negotiators seem to offer a problem-free solution to your debt troubles. They offer to negotiate with your creditors, making the process seem infinitely more complex than it actually is. In truth, many individuals can simply negotiate with creditors themselves. The threat of bankruptcy is very real for many lenders, and as a result many are willing to offer you alternatives to the current high interest rates they are charging you. By cutting out the middle man credit negotiator, you can save much by way of charges, for the rather minimal hassle of calling the creditors yourself.
Both debt consolidation and debt management services fill important niches in a world where consumer debt is increasingly prevalent. It is important to remember, however, that these companies make money off of you. And because the industry is in a stage of rapid growth there are a great number of companies working on the edges of the law if not engaging in outright predatory lending. By entering the world of debt relief you are entering the world of scam artists and sub-prime lenders. Educating yourself before you enter the arena is the only way to ensure that you attain the best debt relief for you.
Debt Consolidation
The most well-known form of debt relief is debt consolidation. The principle behind debt consolidation is that by combining the many small debts, many of which are very high interest such as credit cards, under a single lower interest loan, you can get control of your debt. Under the single lower interest loan, the overall cost of servicing the debt, that is your total monthly payment, is lower than the combined total of the many smaller debts. That at least is the theory behind all debt consolidation programs.
Many programs go further, however, by limiting your discretionary spending. The theory goes, that because you have accumulated so much debt through your own uncontrolled spending, the debt consolidation lender will in effect act as your accountant too. The limitations placed on you by debt relief programs range from prohibiting major purchases like as a new car or home, all the way to those organizations which take your paycheck before you get it, and then dole out to you the remainder. While the latter version sounds intrusive, and certainly it is, it may prove for some individuals the best option as it will force a rationing of discretionary spending. But one thing you can count on with almost every debt consolidation program is the requirement that you cut up all of your credit cards. As credit is the number one contributor to consumer debt today, that isn't all that bad of an idea.
Creditor Negotiations
But debt consolidation isn't the only option available to those in debt crisis. Another option is to hire a creditor negotiator. These services, usually under the name debt management or debt managers, mediate negotiations between you and your creditors in the hope of lowering your total debt. In effect, these individuals bargain with your creditors, threatening them with the possibility of you seeking bankruptcy (in which case they get almost nothing) to try to get them to lower the interest rate, or the principle of your debt. This can be a very effective method for those unable or hesitant to secure a new larger debt through a debt consolidation loan.
The problem with both of these options is that they do not come for free. While many organizations present themselves as non-profit or even public servants, the reality is that almost every agency is in business because of the profits they can make off of you. For example, many individuals in need of debt consolidation are so thankful to find a willing lender that promises to lower their monthly payment, that they fail to examine closely the loan contract they are offered.
The Negatives and Scams of Debt Relief Programs
A common scam is to hide huge "service fees" or "debt consolidation fees" in the principle of the loan. So, if for example you have $50,000 in outstanding debt, your debt consolidation lender may provide you with a loan as high as $80,000, where the extra $30,000 is comprised almost entirely of fees. The lender then extends the loan out for years and years, so that your monthly payment is actually lower and as a result you do not ask any questions. Another, even more devious scam is to vary the interest rate over the life of the debt consolidation loan. For example, the lender might offer you a loan in which for the first two years the interest rate is an extremely low percentage, say 4%. But very quickly, the interest rate balloons to something like 15% at which point you will no longer be able to make payments and must go back to the lender and "consolidate your debt" once again. But debt consolidation lenders are not the only one's trying to scam you. Creditor negotiators seem to offer a problem-free solution to your debt troubles. They offer to negotiate with your creditors, making the process seem infinitely more complex than it actually is. In truth, many individuals can simply negotiate with creditors themselves. The threat of bankruptcy is very real for many lenders, and as a result many are willing to offer you alternatives to the current high interest rates they are charging you. By cutting out the middle man credit negotiator, you can save much by way of charges, for the rather minimal hassle of calling the creditors yourself.
Both debt consolidation and debt management services fill important niches in a world where consumer debt is increasingly prevalent. It is important to remember, however, that these companies make money off of you. And because the industry is in a stage of rapid growth there are a great number of companies working on the edges of the law if not engaging in outright predatory lending. By entering the world of debt relief you are entering the world of scam artists and sub-prime lenders. Educating yourself before you enter the arena is the only way to ensure that you attain the best debt relief for you.
Friday, October 28, 2005
Debt relief 101: Understanding your options and avoiding the scams
The total consumer debt in the United States has ballooned to over two trillion dollars a full 100% greater than it was just a decade ago. As a result more people than are in need of debt relief services. But like with all burgeoning industries, there are a number of scams and ineffectiveness in many debt relief services. As a result, it is important that consumers considering debt relief know their options.
Debt Consolidation
The most well-known form of debt relief is debt consolidation. The principle behind debt consolidation is that by combining the many small debts, many of which are very high interest such as credit cards, under a single lower interest loan, you can get control of your debt. Under the single lower interest loan, the overall cost of servicing the debt, that is your total monthly payment, is lower than the combined total of the many smaller debts. That at least is the theory behind all debt consolidation programs.
Many programs go further, however, by limiting your discretionary spending. The theory goes, that because you have accumulated so much debt through your own uncontrolled spending, the debt consolidation lender will in effect act as your accountant too. The limitations placed on you by debt relief programs range from prohibiting major purchases like as a new car or home, all the way to those organizations which take your paycheck before you get it, and then dole out to you the remainder. While the latter version sounds intrusive, and certainly it is, it may prove for some individuals the best option as it will force a rationing of discretionary spending. But one thing you can count on with almost every debt consolidation program is the requirement that you cut up all of your credit cards. As credit is the number one contributor to consumer debt today, that isn't all that bad of an idea.
Creditor Negotiations
But debt consolidation isn't the only option available to those in debt crisis. Another option is to hire a creditor negotiator. These services, usually under the name debt management or debt managers, mediate negotiations between you and your creditors in the hope of lowering your total debt. In effect, these individuals bargain with your creditors, threatening them with the possibility of you seeking bankruptcy (in which case they get almost nothing) to try to get them to lower the interest rate, or the principle of your debt. This can be a very effective method for those unable or hesitant to secure a new larger debt through a debt consolidation loan.
The problem with both of these options is that they do not come for free. While many organizations present themselves as non-profit or even public servants, the reality is that almost every agency is in business because of the profits they can make off of you. For example, many individuals in need of debt consolidation are so thankful to find a willing lender that promises to lower their monthly payment, that they fail to examine closely the loan contract they are offered.
The Negatives and Scams of Debt Relief Programs
A common scam is to hide huge "service fees" or "debt consolidation fees" in the principle of the loan. So, if for example you have $50,000 in outstanding debt, your debt consolidation lender may provide you with a loan as high as $80,000, where the extra $30,000 is comprised almost entirely of fees. The lender then extends the loan out for years and years, so that your monthly payment is actually lower and as a result you do not ask any questions. Another, even more devious scam is to vary the interest rate over the life of the debt consolidation loan. For example, the lender might offer you a loan in which for the first two years the interest rate is an extremely low percentage, say 4%. But very quickly, the interest rate balloons to something like 15% at which point you will no longer be able to make payments and must go back to the lender and "consolidate your debt" once again. But debt consolidation lenders are not the only one's trying to scam you. Creditor negotiators seem to offer a problem-free solution to your debt troubles. They offer to negotiate with your creditors, making the process seem infinitely more complex than it actually is. In truth, many individuals can simply negotiate with creditors themselves. The threat of bankruptcy is very real for many lenders, and as a result many are willing to offer you alternatives to the current high interest rates they are charging you. By cutting out the middle man credit negotiator, you can save much by way of charges, for the rather minimal hassle of calling the creditors yourself.
Both debt consolidation and debt management services fill important niches in a world where consumer debt is increasingly prevalent. It is important to remember, however, that these companies make money off of you. And because the industry is in a stage of rapid growth there are a great number of companies working on the edges of the law if not engaging in outright predatory lending. By entering the world of debt relief you are entering the world of scam artists and sub-prime lenders. Educating yourself before you enter the arena is the only way to ensure that you attain the best debt relief for you.
Debt Consolidation
The most well-known form of debt relief is debt consolidation. The principle behind debt consolidation is that by combining the many small debts, many of which are very high interest such as credit cards, under a single lower interest loan, you can get control of your debt. Under the single lower interest loan, the overall cost of servicing the debt, that is your total monthly payment, is lower than the combined total of the many smaller debts. That at least is the theory behind all debt consolidation programs.
Many programs go further, however, by limiting your discretionary spending. The theory goes, that because you have accumulated so much debt through your own uncontrolled spending, the debt consolidation lender will in effect act as your accountant too. The limitations placed on you by debt relief programs range from prohibiting major purchases like as a new car or home, all the way to those organizations which take your paycheck before you get it, and then dole out to you the remainder. While the latter version sounds intrusive, and certainly it is, it may prove for some individuals the best option as it will force a rationing of discretionary spending. But one thing you can count on with almost every debt consolidation program is the requirement that you cut up all of your credit cards. As credit is the number one contributor to consumer debt today, that isn't all that bad of an idea.
Creditor Negotiations
But debt consolidation isn't the only option available to those in debt crisis. Another option is to hire a creditor negotiator. These services, usually under the name debt management or debt managers, mediate negotiations between you and your creditors in the hope of lowering your total debt. In effect, these individuals bargain with your creditors, threatening them with the possibility of you seeking bankruptcy (in which case they get almost nothing) to try to get them to lower the interest rate, or the principle of your debt. This can be a very effective method for those unable or hesitant to secure a new larger debt through a debt consolidation loan.
The problem with both of these options is that they do not come for free. While many organizations present themselves as non-profit or even public servants, the reality is that almost every agency is in business because of the profits they can make off of you. For example, many individuals in need of debt consolidation are so thankful to find a willing lender that promises to lower their monthly payment, that they fail to examine closely the loan contract they are offered.
The Negatives and Scams of Debt Relief Programs
A common scam is to hide huge "service fees" or "debt consolidation fees" in the principle of the loan. So, if for example you have $50,000 in outstanding debt, your debt consolidation lender may provide you with a loan as high as $80,000, where the extra $30,000 is comprised almost entirely of fees. The lender then extends the loan out for years and years, so that your monthly payment is actually lower and as a result you do not ask any questions. Another, even more devious scam is to vary the interest rate over the life of the debt consolidation loan. For example, the lender might offer you a loan in which for the first two years the interest rate is an extremely low percentage, say 4%. But very quickly, the interest rate balloons to something like 15% at which point you will no longer be able to make payments and must go back to the lender and "consolidate your debt" once again. But debt consolidation lenders are not the only one's trying to scam you. Creditor negotiators seem to offer a problem-free solution to your debt troubles. They offer to negotiate with your creditors, making the process seem infinitely more complex than it actually is. In truth, many individuals can simply negotiate with creditors themselves. The threat of bankruptcy is very real for many lenders, and as a result many are willing to offer you alternatives to the current high interest rates they are charging you. By cutting out the middle man credit negotiator, you can save much by way of charges, for the rather minimal hassle of calling the creditors yourself.
Both debt consolidation and debt management services fill important niches in a world where consumer debt is increasingly prevalent. It is important to remember, however, that these companies make money off of you. And because the industry is in a stage of rapid growth there are a great number of companies working on the edges of the law if not engaging in outright predatory lending. By entering the world of debt relief you are entering the world of scam artists and sub-prime lenders. Educating yourself before you enter the arena is the only way to ensure that you attain the best debt relief for you.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
Start Again with Mortgage Refinancing
If you are interested in optimizing your monthly payments on debt, or simply looking to stretch your income a little further each month, you might want to consider refinancing your mortgage.
There are two very basic ways to go about this. First, you might consider switching from a fixed rate home loan, to an adjustable rate home loan. A fixed rate home loan is a loan in which your interest rate is "locked in" and does not change from year to year. An adjustable rate home loan is a loan in which your interest rate is dictated by the market.
The other option is referred to as a "cashout" refinance, in which all your old loans are paid and new ones taken out. This is a sensible option, because the interest you are paying on the original loans is compounded and you eventually start paying interest on interest. A new loan can provide you with the fresh start you need.
When a lender is considering your mortgage refinance application they take into consideration a number of factors including current balance, monthly payment, and the remaining number of months on your current mortgage. Your household income and your debt-to-asset ration will also be considered.
If you are looking to consolidate your debt load or to simply maximize your disposable income, mortgage refinancing might well be your solution. There are few potential drawbacks to consider, mind you. Many lenders will charge extra fees for early or unscheduled payments, so be sure to ask your lender as many questions as you can.
In the case of mortgage refinancing, you may want to consider consulting a mortgage broker. A broker works for you, and not for any particular financial institution. He can take your application, and shop it around to various lenders. This will give you the freedom to determine, to some degree, the terms of your mortgage. It can often result in major cost savings, because you essentially pit one lender against the other for your business. It is definitely something worth looking into, if you are serious about saving some money. If you aren't serious about saving money, you should be.
There are two very basic ways to go about this. First, you might consider switching from a fixed rate home loan, to an adjustable rate home loan. A fixed rate home loan is a loan in which your interest rate is "locked in" and does not change from year to year. An adjustable rate home loan is a loan in which your interest rate is dictated by the market.
The other option is referred to as a "cashout" refinance, in which all your old loans are paid and new ones taken out. This is a sensible option, because the interest you are paying on the original loans is compounded and you eventually start paying interest on interest. A new loan can provide you with the fresh start you need.
When a lender is considering your mortgage refinance application they take into consideration a number of factors including current balance, monthly payment, and the remaining number of months on your current mortgage. Your household income and your debt-to-asset ration will also be considered.
If you are looking to consolidate your debt load or to simply maximize your disposable income, mortgage refinancing might well be your solution. There are few potential drawbacks to consider, mind you. Many lenders will charge extra fees for early or unscheduled payments, so be sure to ask your lender as many questions as you can.
In the case of mortgage refinancing, you may want to consider consulting a mortgage broker. A broker works for you, and not for any particular financial institution. He can take your application, and shop it around to various lenders. This will give you the freedom to determine, to some degree, the terms of your mortgage. It can often result in major cost savings, because you essentially pit one lender against the other for your business. It is definitely something worth looking into, if you are serious about saving some money. If you aren't serious about saving money, you should be.
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
Debt Consolidation Loans - Defining the Pros and Cons of the Method.
Debt consolidation agencies allege that debt consolidation loans can help create savings for its customers by reducing the amount to be paid for debts. The manner in which this will be realised is not immediately comprehensible to most people. Why will a person who legibly holds you in debt accept a payment lesser than what is owed. This and several other questions will be posed by the borrower who has been recommended debt consolidation loan.
The key to this lies in the manner in which negotiation is conducted. Negotiation is the process of arriving at the settlement of some matter through discussion and compromise. Negotiation, as a function under debt settlement, involves one to one discussions with various creditors and requesting them to bring down the rate of interest. Doubt your negotiation skills! Debt consolidation loan provider ensures that borrowers benefit from the best of negotiators that have been employed by them.
This feature of Debt consolidation loans gives it a distinctive character. Only through a proper negotiation, can the repayable debts be brought down. Though there is no fixed modus operandi, creditors of different debts will have to be dealt differently.
Secured debts, for instance will be immediately recovered by the lender through liquidation of the asset kept as collateral. They will not wait to be compensated by the debtor or the debt settlement agency. By agreeing to the terms and conditions on the secured debt, the debtor has given his consent on such liquidation in the event of non-payment of monthly instalments.
What however works in favour of the borrowers is that a major part of the debts of customers is made up of unsecured debts. This is because borrowers fear securing too many loans on ones home or any asset. Unsecured debts carry a high rate of interest. Allowing the debts to rise at the prevailing rate of interest will create a very high debt burden. Therefore, if the debt problem is to be addressed, one will have to strike at the roots, i.e. the rate of interest. The rate of interest has to be clamped down in order to bring the interest burden to a manageable level.
Debt consolidation promises an easy relief from the clutches of debt. As against bankruptcy and individual voluntary arrangement (IVA), debt consolidation loan helps people repay their debts in a much smaller period. In case of bankruptcy and IVA even if the debtor has repaid the debts, it continues to be shown in the debtor's credit file for years. In the future, if the borrower wants financial assistance in the form of loans and mortgage, the bad remark on the credit file will pose difficulties. The borrower, in this case is referred to as a problem case or a person with bad credit history. The use of debt consolidation loan, on the other hand, is not revealed once the debts have been eliminated. Therefore, debt consolidation loans come as an easy solution for borrowers who do not want to extend the after-effects of the debt problem for a longer time.
Once a debt is incurred, the chance of incurring more debts increases. Cycle of debts comes into play. Expert guidance is necessary to break this cycle of debts. Experts who know about debt consolidation loans will not suggest debt consolidation loans at the first stage only. The first stage of debts is when the size of debts is relatively small. Only when the size of debts becomes unmanageable is debt consolidation loan recommended.
There are a large number of banks and financial institutions that offer debt consolidation loans. Online service is available for borrowers who have a busy schedule. All the basic documentation, inclusive of application, can be performed online. Loan providers also use online search facilities in order to find debt consolidation loans easily.
The key to this lies in the manner in which negotiation is conducted. Negotiation is the process of arriving at the settlement of some matter through discussion and compromise. Negotiation, as a function under debt settlement, involves one to one discussions with various creditors and requesting them to bring down the rate of interest. Doubt your negotiation skills! Debt consolidation loan provider ensures that borrowers benefit from the best of negotiators that have been employed by them.
This feature of Debt consolidation loans gives it a distinctive character. Only through a proper negotiation, can the repayable debts be brought down. Though there is no fixed modus operandi, creditors of different debts will have to be dealt differently.
Secured debts, for instance will be immediately recovered by the lender through liquidation of the asset kept as collateral. They will not wait to be compensated by the debtor or the debt settlement agency. By agreeing to the terms and conditions on the secured debt, the debtor has given his consent on such liquidation in the event of non-payment of monthly instalments.
What however works in favour of the borrowers is that a major part of the debts of customers is made up of unsecured debts. This is because borrowers fear securing too many loans on ones home or any asset. Unsecured debts carry a high rate of interest. Allowing the debts to rise at the prevailing rate of interest will create a very high debt burden. Therefore, if the debt problem is to be addressed, one will have to strike at the roots, i.e. the rate of interest. The rate of interest has to be clamped down in order to bring the interest burden to a manageable level.
Debt consolidation promises an easy relief from the clutches of debt. As against bankruptcy and individual voluntary arrangement (IVA), debt consolidation loan helps people repay their debts in a much smaller period. In case of bankruptcy and IVA even if the debtor has repaid the debts, it continues to be shown in the debtor's credit file for years. In the future, if the borrower wants financial assistance in the form of loans and mortgage, the bad remark on the credit file will pose difficulties. The borrower, in this case is referred to as a problem case or a person with bad credit history. The use of debt consolidation loan, on the other hand, is not revealed once the debts have been eliminated. Therefore, debt consolidation loans come as an easy solution for borrowers who do not want to extend the after-effects of the debt problem for a longer time.
Once a debt is incurred, the chance of incurring more debts increases. Cycle of debts comes into play. Expert guidance is necessary to break this cycle of debts. Experts who know about debt consolidation loans will not suggest debt consolidation loans at the first stage only. The first stage of debts is when the size of debts is relatively small. Only when the size of debts becomes unmanageable is debt consolidation loan recommended.
There are a large number of banks and financial institutions that offer debt consolidation loans. Online service is available for borrowers who have a busy schedule. All the basic documentation, inclusive of application, can be performed online. Loan providers also use online search facilities in order to find debt consolidation loans easily.
Saturday, October 22, 2005
Things to know about credit cards
A credit card is a card that allows you to borrow money for paying your purchases but bound to a certain limit. At the end off every month either you have to repay the whole amount or a minimum amount. A planned credit strategy will enable you to improve your credit worthiness. The most obvious thing, which can be done for building a good credit history, is repaying your bills on time, taking measures to protect your credit standings and making your credit report accurate and flawless.
Before making the choice of the credit card there are various points, which are to be kept in mind:
Annual Percentage Rate is the amount of interest you pay every year on your borrowings. The higher APR will make you pay more finance charges. The minimum repayment you make is basically the interest but paying a little more will help you in the reduction of your past balance. APR is one thing that can burn a hole in your pocket. So keep it as low as possible.
Introductory rates: When you sign for the card you are offered with a low or 0% rate of interest for an introductory period. You must keep in mind that this interest free period is applicable on purchases and balance transfers as well. This will reduce your bill considerably.
Gold and Platinum cards: If you are a high-end earner and lavish spender then these two cards can work wonders for you. These cards have lower interest rate, high or no credit limit and are accompanied with several services and benefits.
Grace period: This is also known as interest free period in which you can repay your amount without added interest. This helps you with your debt burden.
Cash back and Rewards: There are various credit card companies which entitle you with the reward points which can be redeemed against free air miles, cash back or discounts. Keep a look that these points are viable for you like for example there is no use of collecting air miles if you never fly.
Balance transfer rates: This is the option, which is hunted by the people who are having a huge outstanding amount. Many cards offers lower rate of interest. Thus, if you transfer your balance from one card o another with lower interest it can help you with your debt problems and save a lot of money.
Late payments: This feature is the main stay of any credit card for careless spendthrifts. The interest keeps piling when you delay your payments. Thus, at one point of time the interest amount exceeds the principal amount. So it is advisable to check the charges levied on the late payments.
All these features and offers compile in to form a good credit card and you should be aware of your credit card well.
Before making the choice of the credit card there are various points, which are to be kept in mind:
Annual Percentage Rate is the amount of interest you pay every year on your borrowings. The higher APR will make you pay more finance charges. The minimum repayment you make is basically the interest but paying a little more will help you in the reduction of your past balance. APR is one thing that can burn a hole in your pocket. So keep it as low as possible.
Introductory rates: When you sign for the card you are offered with a low or 0% rate of interest for an introductory period. You must keep in mind that this interest free period is applicable on purchases and balance transfers as well. This will reduce your bill considerably.
Gold and Platinum cards: If you are a high-end earner and lavish spender then these two cards can work wonders for you. These cards have lower interest rate, high or no credit limit and are accompanied with several services and benefits.
Grace period: This is also known as interest free period in which you can repay your amount without added interest. This helps you with your debt burden.
Cash back and Rewards: There are various credit card companies which entitle you with the reward points which can be redeemed against free air miles, cash back or discounts. Keep a look that these points are viable for you like for example there is no use of collecting air miles if you never fly.
Balance transfer rates: This is the option, which is hunted by the people who are having a huge outstanding amount. Many cards offers lower rate of interest. Thus, if you transfer your balance from one card o another with lower interest it can help you with your debt problems and save a lot of money.
Late payments: This feature is the main stay of any credit card for careless spendthrifts. The interest keeps piling when you delay your payments. Thus, at one point of time the interest amount exceeds the principal amount. So it is advisable to check the charges levied on the late payments.
All these features and offers compile in to form a good credit card and you should be aware of your credit card well.
Thursday, October 13, 2005
Cash Loans for the Unemployed: Ready Money in Distress
Unemployed people are persistently cash-strapped. Lack of an income, regular expenses and a drying or non-existent bank balance often has them lurking for finances. In such a precarious situation any financial emergency can make them desperate and the results can be disastrous. To prevent any such misdeed and provide immediate relief by means of instant cash, lending companies provide cash loans for the unemployed.
Cash loans for the unemployed come with many advantages. Giving a thought to the dismal financial condition and urgent requirements cash loans for the unemployed are available at a short notice. Unemployed people are already short on funds and if the cash is not made available instantly the entire purpose of giving such a loan might be defeated. Secondly, cash loans for the unemployed are given without a credit check. The lending institutions do not take into account any negative credit ratings or ccj's while giving such a loan.
Cash loans for unemployed are a risky investment for the lenders. The person they are lending to is unemployed, he or she doesn't have any bank balance, the collateral is missing and the repayment capacity does not exist- together all these facts present a picture which is not at all pleasant for the lending companies. But they appreciate the fact that any person in such a difficult situation needs a helping hand to ameliorate his condition. Striking a balance between the needs of unemployed and their profits, the lenders provide the cash loan for the unemployed.
Cash loans for the unemployed must not be misunderstood as a charity or something, which has to be taken and swindled. Like every other loan, cash loan for the unemployed has to be repaid and that too with interest. The lending companies are professional organisations, which have operating costs, and must make money in order to survive and compete. A borrower must understand that the interest paid by them on the loan forms the major chunk of lenders profit.
To offset the risk involved in giving cash loans for the unemployed lenders charge high interest rates and have quick repayment periods. The lending companies also impose heavy penalties on defaulters and those who are late in repaying the loans. Since the risk is greater the companies tend to lend smaller amounts. The terms are indeed, strict for the borrower and favour the lender but the borrower has a little choice, but to agree. Considering the circumstances in which he is trapped, a cash loan for the unemployed is the best possible solution available to him.
A cash loan for the unemployed might be the only alternative, but still the borrower can choose his favourite lender. The lending market is very competitive and various lenders are offering innovative schemes and discounts to attract customers. If the borrower shops judiciously, he will surely extract a better deal on a cash loan for the unemployed.
The borrower should make sure that he gets funds when he needs them the most; he should clearly indicate this to the lender. To get a clear picture on the lending time taken by various organisations he or she should enquire extensively. The borrower should make an effort if possible, to negotiate a deal that ties the loan repayment with his subsequent employment.
The negativities in borrowing a cash loan for unemployed are numerous. The interest rates are higher, the loan amount small, the repayment period quick and the penalties for default very high. If you are contemplating on taking such a loan give it a serious thought. Take every fact into consideration, don't get carried by the emotions alone, make a rational judgment and ensure that you repay the loan as agreed.
Andrew baker has done his masters in finance from CPIT.He is engaged in providing free,professional,and independent advice to the residents of the UK.He works for the Secured loan web site loans fiesta for any type of loans in uk,secured loans,unsecured loans,debt consolidation loans please visit http://www.loansfiesta.co.uk/
