Queensland’s flood disaster has made residents all the more aware of what exactly their insurance policy consists of. Although it is stated in most policies that you will be covered for flood damage that is, flash flooding, storm water and rain water various insurers exclude riverine and inland flooding. This factor has affected many Queensland residences as they are now left with vehicles that are severely damaged and their insurers do not cover them. Many other residents weren’t even covered in the first place and as brutal as it may sound insurer’s are going by the notion of “no insurance, no payout”.

Suncorp is one of Queensland’s largest insurance companies that have flood insurance incorporated into their policy. There will be no issue in paying out clients whose cars, bikes or boats were damaged in the disaster.

This event has left Australians devastated and aware with exactly what their insurers are covering them for. When updating your insurance next be sure to read the policy thoroughly, even the fine print! It is vital to be covered in the event of any natural disaster. If you are not covered the consequences aren’t too pleasant, leaving you with no car to make your way around. Not only will you have to be relying on public transport, but also you will have to start saving for another car or seek for finance.

Let this disaster be a lesson to all, if you weren’t aware of your cover contact your insurer to find out what you are eligible for and seek for a product that does cover you.

Technorati Tags: Bike Insurance, car finance, comprehensive car insurance, other car costs

Bankruptcy has become an increasing solution for individuals who cannot pay off their debts and liabilities. According to ITSA’s statistics,  10,499 Australians filed for bankruptcy in 2008-2009 and that is only in New South Whales! In Victoria, figures were almost half the amount at 5,980 individuals.

If you are bankrupt this does not mean you cannot work. In fact it’s recommended you continue working to pay off any debts that are remaining according to your plan with the creditors. Over your bankruptcy period attempt to pay all your commitments in a timely manner! You don’t want to add any defaults to your credit file, this will make it much harder to qualify for a loan when you are discharged. Bankruptcy usually lasts for 3 years unless it has been extended to 5 or 8 years. Although you will eventually get discharged, it will remain on your credit file for a few years after until it eventually drops off.

Many individuals want to get financed whilst they are bankrupt, this is not possible. Once you are discharged for a minimum of 12 months a financier will be able to help you, in the meantime do not apply anywhere. The more hits you have on your file the less chance you will have later on. It is recommended you have no more than four finance enquiries per year, financiers do not like a busy credit file.

When you are discharged and are looking at financing another car or boat there are many brokers that will be willing to assist you. These days there are financiers that are specifically in the market to provide second chance lending. Although they cater to assist individuals who have had a bit of a bumpy ride in the past, expect to received an interest rate that is slightly higher.

If you would like more information on how to go about getting finance after you are discharged contact Natloans on 1300 955 791 or have a browse on www.natloans.com.au

Technorati Tags: Bankruptcy, car finance, Interest Rates

As time goes by technology is improving at a rapid rate, increasing our chances of survival in car accidents. Statistics reveal that in Victoria, 1 in 4 cars are unsafe, that is 27.9% of our cars. It is also evident that darker colored vehicles have a higher chance of being involved in a car accident, whereas lighter colored vehicles provide better visibility to drivers.

Purchasing a new car provides the driver with the newest and safest technology, hence the importance of eliminating older vehicles from the road. New technology has decreased the number of deaths and serious injuries, due to safer car features.

Various features that are included in most vehicles are:

ABS Brakes: ABS brakes prevent brakes from quickly locking up. In fact they usually prevent an accident from occurring due to being so effective.

Reverse Cameras & Sensing System: This feature is currently on specific vehicles, unless you have requested them. They allow the driver to have a view

Driver Fatigue Warnings: When the driver is on the road for more than 2 hours a warning will appear, reminding them to take a break preventing high levels of fatigue.

Airbags: Are currently in most vehicles and have saved many lives in the past. They are usually located in the centre of the steering wheel and on the side of the doors. When the car is in a severe collision, this will be detected and the airbags will automatically pop out in only a matter of seconds.

Car manufacturers claim that from 2012 head protection technology will be mandatory in all new vehicles. It is vital to be driving a car with high safety features, as drivers can be quite dangerous (i.e. intoxicated or fatigue drivers).

For more information on how to go about financing a safer car in the new year call Natloans on 1300 955 791 or visit www.natloans.com.au

Technorati Tags: Buying a car, car finance, car loan tips, other car costs

When in comes to finding the right car it can often be quite difficult due to the huge range of cars in the market. There are all sorts of designs, colors and varying features. Although they are all used for the same purpose the extent of luxury varies significantly depending on the make/model.

If you know nothing about car shopping you have a few things to learn! Finding yourself the perfect car can be done online, by a dealership or even in the local trading post. The first place to start is at the car yard, allowing you to choose a car that you like and is between your budget. Once you have chosen a few cars of interest your investigation begins in order to narrow your search down.

Websites such as www.carsales.com.au offer a wide range of new and used cars, allowing you to search according to the make, model and even location in which the car is currently in.  This is the most popular way of finding a car, checking online daily to see if the right car is on the market.  If and when you find the car, call the owner to pop by for a test drive! Remember to ask:

• Whether the car has been completely paid off?

• When the registration is due?

• If the car has been in any major accidents?

If the car has traveled a significant amount of kilometers you may be able to negotiate with the owner to drop the price even further. Look for any flaws of the vehicle, even if it is a scratch here and there to drop the price to a satisfactory one!

If you aren’t up with technology the trading post is a great way to find your car! Although you may not be able to see a visual at all times, if you know what you want it should be fine due to you will be taking it on a test drive before you make the purchase.

Knowing what you want to buy will allow you to find the best deal available and narrow down your search quickly. Reading up on reviews will also guide you in the right direction. For more information on what deals are available on new and used cars contact Natloans on 1300 955 791 or visit the website www.natloans.com.au

Technorati Tags: Buying a car, car finance, tips to buying a car

Before Gillard was elected to be Prime Minister she proposed the “Cash for Clunkers Program”, now the citizens of Australia are eligible for this benefit if they meet the criteria. This program has been proven successful in European countries, that is many individuals are favoring newer and smaller cars. What happens during this process is that individuals trade in their car that has aged significantly and receive 1,000-2,500 euros to go towards a new car that is better for the environment.

In Australia, as of January 2011-2014 Gillard will provide up to $394 million to support motorist in buying new, low emission, fuel efficient vehicles. This aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions of one million tones, whilst at the same time removing 200,000 pre-1995 cars off the road. This will benefit motorists in two aspects: saving $344 million in fuel costs and they will be traveling in safer cars!

There are a few conditions:

• Your car must be given up to be crushed and sold as scrap metal.
• You must be purchasing a new vehicle to be eligible for the $2,000 rebate.
• There is a list of specific vehicles you may choose from, there are at least 370 vehicles that are eligible so you shouldn’t have too much difficulties finding a car that suites your needs. Some vehicles that you can choose from are: Toyota Prius, Suzuki Auto, Holden Barina Spark, Honda Jazz or the Hyundai Getz.

This program has proven to be quite successful internationally, if Australians are open to this suggestion we will be cutting down on a significant amount of pollution that will benefit us all in the long run. If you are considering financing a new vehicle contact Natloans on 1300 955 791, to see if you are eligible for these funds in the new year!

Technorati Tags: Buying a car, car finance, pre-approval car loans, tips to buying a car

It is quite exciting knowing you will be driving around in a new vehicle, however have you really thought about whether it’s worth purchasing a brand new vehicle? Yes, surely you will be the very first owner, but is it really worth it?

If you have money to spare go for it! These days you can purchase a vehicle that is only a few years old and majority of these cars are as good as new and there are hundreds to choose from (i.e. Mazda 6, Holden Commodore, Toyota Yaris, Honda Accord). At the end of the day each car has the same features and performance levels, the only difference is the price you pay.

Another target market that would suit the category “used cars”, are new drivers. Statistics reveal that young and new drivers have a higher chance of being in a car accident or will bump their car here and there unintentionally. Why pay for a new car knowing that the moment you drive away from the dealer the price will drop a few thousand.

Where to find your next purchase?

The two broad categories you can start searching is either online websites or pop in to your local dealership. It would be ideal to begin at a dealership where you can see a range of vehicles, to choose what model suits you best and this also allows you to see what prices are applicable for each.

Having a few models in mind will guide you in the right direction. If you decide to purchase through a dealer, that is great! But remember to negotiate a price that you are satisfied with, get your moneys worth.

If you choose to buy through a private sale, you will need to undertake extensive research in finding the best option. That is, the right model, color, low kilometers and to check whether the car has been completely paid off from any previous loan.

For more information on what rates and loan terms are currently available contact Natloans on 1300 955 791.

Technorati Tags: Buying a car, buying first car, car dealerships, car finance

Looking for a car can be quite exciting, but what can take that excitement away in only a matter of minutes is the amount of interest you will be paying! This highlights the importance of finding the best deal at the most appealing price.

Two main factors that contribute to the interest rate is the loan term, credit history and the customer’s profile.

The longer the loan term is the lower the rate will be. However, if you expand the term too much you may find that you have been paying more interest than predicted. An ideal term would be 5 years, but it will vary according to the affordability of the customer.

If you have had a bad credit history the chances of you getting a loan are moderate, but be prepared to be faced with quite a high interest rate. This is due to lenders wanting to feel comfortable that you will be repaying the loan back and not defaulting again. For first time buyers it is imperative they receive the best advice from the beginning of the loan experiences. Remember not to apply to many financiers as this will affect your rating and may minimize your chances of being eligible for a loan, even though you have a clear record.

A customer’s profile depicts to a financier how strong they are, they take into consideration their occupation status, children, expenses and most importantly the wages. If a customer can’t afford to pay their commitments, no lender will be up for giving them a loan.

So before thinking of applying for a loan, contact Natloans for some advice! Remember don’t apply unless you are sure, you don’t want unnecessary hits on your credit file!

Technorati Tags: car finance, car loans, Interest Rates

Are you thinking of buying a new car? Before you sign any contracts or pay one dollar you should consider various points. You want to be buying a car that is within your budget and most importantly suits your needs.

What should you keep in mind when shopping for a from a car dealer?

1. Remember to do your homework, read reviews, speak to your mechanic and any friends that have the same car. They will give you an honest opinion.
2. Decide on a budget and seek for a pre-approval before you even think about finding a car, you want to know that the finance is there when you find the perfect package.
3. If your buying from a dealer does not get persuaded by their discounts in purchasing another vehicle you know nothing about!
4. Pay a professional to inspect your car if it’s not brand new! Various companies offer this service, specifically for the pre-purchase of your car. An engine test and a road test is taken out and you receive a detailed report in order to guide you in making your decision.
5. Do not pay a deposit unless you are certain the car is in excellent condition.

How about private sales?

1. Check that the car is paid off! The only service “Register of Encumbered Vehicles” will provide you with a certificate that there is no money owing on the car.
2. Have your car examined by your local mechanic; you don’t want your purchase to be faulty!
3. Be sure that the owner is who they claim they are, in case it is a stolen vehicle.
4. Negotiate a fair price with the owner.
5. Take the care on a test drive!

Take the time to examine your car thoroughly, taking on necessary tests and measures so that you can be satisfied with your purchase. You don’t want to be buying someone else’s problems and having to pay another that much to fix mechanical problems!

Technorati Tags: Buying a car, car buying tips, car finance, tips to buying a car

You know that you always want to out you best foot forward and in car finance you definitely want to do this.

You don’t want to just say, “Can I have loan”.

It’s like saying, “Hi I have no idea about loans. So you can charge me what ever you want.”

What if you could say something like this:

“I’m looking for a chattel mortgage with a 40% balloon, over 40 months with a buy back option.”

In the finance industry just like any other industry there are buzzwords that are used to make people sound like they know what they are talking about. the car finance there isn’t any difference and it isn’t hard to learn.

Car Hire Purchase

Car Finance Lease

Novated Car Lease

Chattel Mortgage

Car Hire Purchase

Essentially a hire purchase is a rental agreement. One of the most notable features of a hire purchase is that you keep the asset. A hire purchase agreement is between you, your employer and the finance company.

So hire purchase features

• The asset is your to keep once
• Depreciate can be claimed
• A balloon is an option
• The repayments can be reduced by including a deposit or a trade in
• You have a flexible repayment schedule

Learn more about car hire purchase

Car Finance Lease

A car finance lease is also referred to as a finance lease or car lease is essentially a rental agreement between the financier and you. A car finance lease is a commercial loan product, which has the advantage of owning the car while in actual fact the financier, owns the vehicle.

There are a couple way industry describes a car finance lease some call it just a finance lease or a car lease. This is another rental agreement. It is a commercial loan with all the benefits of owning a car but in reality the finance company owns it and you make rental repayments.

Learn more about car finance lease

Novated Car Lease

A Novated car lease is a great way for a business to give their employees a car as apart of the salary package.

Learn more about novated car lease

Chattel Mortgage

A great way off inancing business equipment. A chettel mortgage is a very flexible loan product.

Learn more about chattel mortgage

Technorati Tags: business finance, car finance, car finance terms

We have now made it through the GFC (Global Financial Crisis) and car finance lenders have started loosing their purse strings. This means that finance car loan in getting easier but it is still proving to be a challenge in some cases. So where can one finance a car loan these days?

Car finance is an excellent way to get your hands on a car without having to save the entire cost to purchase a car. When it comes to financing a car there are always options like secured car loans and unsecured car loans. Whether to include a balloon at the end of the loan term and how much deposit you can afford. Usually you need to consider all of these finance options before seeing your bank or finance broker.

With a finance broker like natloans you will be able to make the right decisions based on free professional advice from one of our loan consultants.

Technorati Tags: car finance, car loan