By Personal loans are playing an important role to solve our financial issues, but there are pros and cons of having personal loans. Before knowing these pros and cons, you’ll have to know about the types of personal loans. There are two main types of personal loan that are secured and unsecured personal loan.
Secured Personal Loans
A secured loan is a type of borrowing where the borrower provides collateral, such as an asset or property, to the lender as a guarantee for repayment. In case of unable to repay the loan amount, they can seize and sell collateral like property, vehicles, jewellery, etc. to recover the loan.
Pros of Secured Loans:
- Lower Interest Rates: Secured loans are backed by collateral, like your car or home, which reduces the lender’s risk. As a result, lenders provide a secured personal loan at a lower interest rate as compared to unsecured loan.
- Higher Loan Amounts: With collateral, you can often borrow larger sums of money. This makes secured loans a good choice for major expenses like home renovations or buying a car.
- Easier Approval: Lenders are more willing to approve secured loans because they have something to claim if you fail to repay. There are chances to get instant approval if you have enough financial assets for collateral.
Cons of Secured Loans:
- Risk to Your Assets: The most significant drawback of secured loans is that your collateral is at risk. If you are unable to make the loan amount, the lender has the right to sell or seize your collateral to recover the loan.
- More Complex Application: Secured loans often involve a more extensive application process, including appraisals and documentation related to the collateral.
- Longer Approval Time: Due to the additional steps in the application process, secured loans may take longer to get approved and funded.
Unsecured Personal Loans
Unsecured personal loans do not require any collateral to recover the loan amount. Lenders provide loans based on a borrower’s creditworthiness. Lenders check the credit history of borrowers, which shows how responsible a borrower is to repay debt.
Pros of Unsecured Personal Loans:
- No Collateral Required: Unsecured loans are in high demand because of it is required no collateral in case of loan default. No one wants to risk their financial assets.
- Simpler Application Process: Applying for an unsecured loan is usually quicker and less complex than a secured loan, as there’s no need for collateral appraisal.
- Faster Approval: These loans are often approved more quickly, making them suitable for urgent financial needs.
Cons of Unsecured Personal Loans:
- Higher Interest Rates: Since unsecured loans are riskier for lenders, they typically come with higher interest rates. A borrower pays more interest to get a collateral-free loan, or we can say lenders charge a high interest rate to provide a collateral-free loan.
- Lower Loan Limits: Without collateral, the loan amount you can secure is usually smaller. This might not be enough for significant expenses.
- Stricter Eligibility Criteria: Lenders may require a higher credit score and income level to qualify for unsecured loans, making them less accessible for some borrowers.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing between a secured and unsecured personal loan depends on your specific financial situation and needs. Here are some considerations to help you decide:
– Collateral: If you have valuable assets, you’re willing to pledge them, and you want lower interest rates and higher loan amounts, a secured loan might be a good option for you.
– Risk Tolerance: If you’re uncomfortable risking your assets and can handle somewhat higher interest rates, you can avail of an unsecured loan without risking your valuable assets.
– Loan Purpose: Consider the reason for the loan. Major purchases like a home or car may be better suited to secured loans, while smaller expenses or consolidating debt could work with unsecured loans. Secure loans are helpful for higher loan amount with longer tenure with lower interest rates.
– Credit and Income: Your credit score and income level will influence your eligibility for both types of loans. If you have a strong financial profile, you may have more choices.
– Time Sensitivity: If you need money quickly, an unsecured loan could be a better option due to its faster approval process.
Conclusion:
Secured and unsecured loans have their own pros and cons, but it depends on the borrower, how they can get the benefits of different kinds of loans. Mostly unsecured loans are also called short term loans even secured loan can be avail for a longer tenure. Types of loans are designed to fulfil different needs and dreams. It’s essential to evaluate your financial situation and goals carefully before deciding which one is right for you. Remember to shop around, compare offers from different lenders, and read the fine print to ensure you make the most informed decision possible.
Infographic created by Vergent, industry leaders in short term loan software
