Despite the black cloud that seems to be hanging over your head, auto financing after bankruptcy can be easier than you think. Sure, it may take more work and patience on your part, but purchasing a car can be the quickest way to begin rebuilding your credit.
Because bankruptcy lowers your credit score, it is nice to know there are auto lenders that specialize in helping people get back on their financial feet, so to speak. Therefore an auto loan can be your greatest ally after bankruptcy.
Here are a few things to keep in mind before shopping for special auto financing.
The best place to begin is by doing an on-line search for dealers who offer subprime loan programs. You’ll find that not all car dealers offer programs for people who have been through a bankruptcy.
Once you have found a dealer who offers the type of financing you need go and speak with the dealer and see if they can help you. Explain your situation and tell the person that you are in the market for auto financing after a bankruptcy.
Does the dealer seem understanding and compassionate? You have been through tough times already and now it’s time to rebuild your credit. It will be more comfortable for you to find someone to work with who truly seems to understand your situation and cares. If you get a sense of compassion from the dealer, take it to the next step.
Look for a dealer who will get you a late model vehicle and not try to put you into some old beat up car that needs a lot of work. There are also programs that don’t require any money down. Don’t let the salesman tell you that you must have a big deposit to buy a car from him.
Keep your monthly payments within your budget so you can easily afford the payments. You don’t want to end up with a payment that you may not be able to make every month.
Once you get approved and buy your car, be sure and make your monthly payments on time. Making your payments on time is the number one way to help raise your credit score. Setting the loan up for success is your first priority so that you do not fall behind on payments as you have in the past.
Ask is there is a prepayment penalty in the contract. You want a loan where you can pay it off early without any fees or penalties for paying off the loan early.
These steps can help make auto financing after bankruptcy easier than you think. You have the chance to start anew and create a new positive credit history.