Category: Personal Loans

There are lots of different options for borrowing these days and it means that we do have money available when we need it. However, sometimes we do not wait until we need money but just borrow it to treat ourselves. Some people are against doing that and it can be a bit confusing as to whether we should borrow for that reason or whether we should just wait for emergencies. So, whether you are considering a personal loan or any other type of loan, it is wise to think about whether it is a good idea. Perhaps musing over the following points could help you to make up your mind more easily.

• Does it Offer Value for Money? – it is worth remembering that every loan has a cost and so we need to know how much that is and then we will be able to work out whether we think that it offers us good value for money. Consider what you are using it to pay for. Let’s imagine it is a car you are buying with the money. Consider the cost of the car, then add on the cost of the loan and think about whether you still think the car is good value taking into account that fact that you have to pay those borrowing fees as well. It is also worth thinking about the fact that you will have to find the loan repayments, which might be stressful and if you miss any you will have extra fees to pay.
• Can you Repay it? – it is really important to think about whether you can repay the loan. Make sure that you find out how much you will need to repay and when, before you take out the loan. Then, look back over your bank statements to see whether you think that you will be able to afford them. Look carefully at the money you normally have coming in and what you have to buy either because they are essential such as food, or because you are committed to paying it such as mobile phone contract. See whether you would still have enough money left, after paying for these items, to be able to afford the loan repayments as well. You may need to go without some of your non-essentials and you need to consider whether this is something that you are prepared to do or whether you would rather not borrow so you were not in this situation.
• Do You Have Alternative Options? – it is always good to think about whether there are any alternatives to borrowing. Borrowing has a cost and if you can avoid that cost then this will benefit you. Start by thinking about whether you really need the item that you are buying with the loan. You could just go without. Then think about whether you are prepared to wait for it, as you could take to save up the money rather than borrowing it and having the item immediately. This can be tricky, especially if are used to always having what you want right away, but it will be a cheaper option for you. If you cannot wait, then consider whether you have other options to borrowing. For example, you might have some savings that you can use and this could help out or you might be able to get an advance on your salary or perhaps find an opportunity to earn a bit more money somewhere. If there are no alternatives, then look to a loan, but ensure you choose the right loan type for you as well as finding the lender that offers the best value for money.