Filing for bankruptcy in Australia can leave a lasting mark on your credit report, making it harder to secure car finance. However, bankruptcy doesn’t mean you’re automatically excluded from car loans. Several options exist for individuals with recent bankruptcies who are looking to finance a vehicle. While the process may come with higher interest rates or stricter terms, there are still deals available. Here’s a guide to securing the best car finance deals for people with recent bankruptcies in Australia.
- Secured Car Loans
For people with recent bankruptcies, secured car loans are often the best option. With a secured loan, the vehicle you purchase acts as collateral for the loan. If you default on the loan, the lender has the right to repossess the car to recover their funds, which makes the loan less risky for the lender.
Because the loan is secured, lenders are typically more willing to approve car loans for individuals with bad credit or recent bankruptcies. Though the interest rates may be higher than those offered to individuals with a good credit history, secured loans provide an opportunity for those who may otherwise struggle to get approved. To get the best deal on a secured loan, be sure to compare interest rates and repayment terms across different lenders.
- Bad Credit Car Finance Providers
Several specialist lenders in Australia cater specifically to individuals with bad credit, including those who have filed for bankruptcy. These lenders understand that financial difficulties such as bankruptcy do not necessarily reflect a person’s ability to repay a loan moving forward. Lenders like Money3, CarLoans.com.au, and Plenti offer more flexible approval processes and may be more willing to provide financing to individuals who have experienced bankruptcy.
While the interest rates are likely to be higher than those of traditional lenders, these bad credit finance providers are often more lenient in their approval criteria. They assess factors such as income, employment history, and current financial situation rather than just focusing on past credit issues.
- Larger Deposits and Co-Signers
To improve your chances of securing the best car finance deal, consider saving for a larger deposit. A larger upfront payment reduces the amount you need to borrow, lowering the lender’s risk and making them more likely to approve your loan. Additionally, you may want to consider applying with a co-signer who has a good credit history. A co-signer can significantly increase your chances of loan approval and may result in more favorable loan terms.
- Loan Terms to Watch Out For
When considering car finance deals after bankruptcy, it’s essential to review the loan terms carefully. While the focus is often on getting approved, it’s equally important to understand the cost of the loan over time. High interest rates and additional fees can increase the overall cost of the loan. Comparing offers from different lenders, including specialist bad credit car finance providers, will help ensure you get the best deal.
- Work on Rebuilding Your Credit
While securing car finance after bankruptcy can be more challenging, it is also an opportunity to start rebuilding your credit. Consistently making your loan repayments on time can gradually improve your credit score, allowing you to access better financing deals in the future.
Conclusion
Securing the best car finance deal after a recent bankruptcy in Australia requires careful planning and research. Secured car loans, bad credit lenders, and co-signer agreements offer viable options for getting approved. By saving for a larger deposit, comparing loan offers, and ensuring you understand the loan terms, you can secure car finance and start rebuilding your financial future.
DISCLAIMER
The information provided on this website is general in nature only and has been prepared without considering your financial needs, circumstances and objectives and should NOT be construed as financial, taxation or legal advice. For more information, get in touch with our experienced partner brokers today.