Truck Loans Australia :: Articles

Simple Tips On Getting Your Loan

What are some simple tips for getting a loan?

Simple Tips On Getting Your Loan

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

So, you want to get a loan? Here are some simple tips that might help you make more informed decisions about the type of loan you buy, and from whom.
As you would probably be aware, a loan varies according to:
  • The amount borrowed;
  • The interest rate;
  • The type of rate (fixed or variable);
  • The term (length in years) of the loan;
  • Deposit (downpayment);
  • Associated fees (broker, origination, prepayment etc.);
  • Insurance required by the lender.
When you get a loan, you are buying money for more than it cost the lender. Simple.
Car Finance- Quick & Easy
Image for Car Finance- Quick & EasyIf you are in the market for a new or used car, then we're in the market to help you arrange the money. Our car loan & leasing finance service is backed by a national panel of car loan specialists who will establish your eligibility, find lender/s offering the best deals for your situation - and help you through the approval and settlement process. No charge to you - and no obligation to proceed with any recommendations offered.
If you are comparing loan offers, it is a mistake to consider the interest rate alone. Depending on the type of loan, there may also be arrangement fees and *prepayment penalty* clauses to consider. Therefore, you should be sure to take into account the total cost of your loan when comparing options - and definitely before committing.
Keep a copy of every cheque you write for your loan. If you call your lender about your loan, make sure you get the full name of the person with whom you speak. Make a note of it. You may be dealing with a large bureaucracy, and will need to refer to this conversation later.
Do a budget. Make sure you use realistic figures. Keep all of your receipts, or keep a record, for all of the money that you spend for a month. Use that to help you compile the first draft.
Be prepared to review and update it regularly. A co-ordinated budget allows you to get the most loan for your money without beggaring yourself, while getting rid of wasteful spending.
Where possible you should avoid loans that contain combinations of the following attributes:
  • Short-term;
  • High up-front fees;
  • High rates;
  • Balloon payments;
  • Excessively high late fees;
  • Prepayment penalties.
These loans can potentially swallow up any equity you may have, and ruin your financial position.
Beware of prepayment penalties. Many 'no fee' credit lines have a pre-payment penalty. There is no need to agree get a loan which contains any significant prepayment penalty, if you have good credit. One of the smartest things someone can do with a loan is to prepay it.
All you need to do is contact your lender and ask for its prepayment procedure. Then, every so often, check the loan balance the lender sends you, to make sure the additional payments have been accounted properly.
Be wary of promises of getting a loan quickly. Many borrowers are told that their loans will close within a particular time. They don't make payments on existing debts, in anticipation of the new loan.
After several delays, they can become delinquent, with no money from the new loan. Some mortgage companies then order new credit reports, and charge the borrowers higher fees, and a higher rate, because of the delinquent loans, which resulted from delays caused by the loan company!
Submit a neat application form; it shows you're business-like and efficient. It will be read and assessed by a human being; appearances count.
Only pay up-front fees to well-known or highly recommended institutions. While most institutions are reputable, it is always best to be cautious.
Don't sign documents without reading them. As soon as possible, before you close the deal, review the documents you'll be signing, and make sure you understand them, so you won't have to sign them in a hurry.
Keep your credit line as small as possible. You could be turned down for other loans, even when your credit line has a zero balance, since a large credit-line indicates a large potential outgoings.
If your spending is out of control, don't get a home equity credit line to pay off your credit cards. Don't put your home at risk by spending large amounts on your credit cards, after paying them off with your credit line.
Pay off small debts before the due date. Cancel credit cards you are not using. Loan officers tend to count the total line of credit - even if you owe nothing - as a liability. They will only cloud the picture. Close credit lines that you have no intention of using in the near future. Also look closely at the interest rates and fees, when deciding which cards to keep.
Choose a lender with a clean record with the industry watchdogs in your country. The mortgage industry receives a great number of complaints against it. In Australia, mortgage and finance brokers of any kind must be licensed with A.S.I.C, and all licensing information for brokers can be found on the A.S.I.C. website.
Shop for rates when the market is calm. Rates change from day to day, so compare lenders. The quotes you get should all be from the same time period.
Check your payments are correct - Do the mathematics. There's a one in ten chance you could be paying more than you should.
If you find yourself in a dispute with a lender about a payment or another issue, don't send correspondence to the same address you send your payment. You need to deal with the decision-makers, not the account clerks.

Published: Sunday, 1st Aug 2021
Author: Paige Estritori


Truck Loans Articles

Essential Document Checklist for Truck Loan Approval: What You Need to Know
Essential Document Checklist for Truck Loan Approval: What You Need to Know
Getting the right truck loan can be essential for business owners who rely on commercial vehicles. These loans cover a variety of commercial vehicle types and are crucial for ensuring your business operations run smoothly. Truck loans, specifically, provide the necessary finances to purchase trucks, which are indispensable in industries like logistics and delivery services across Australia. - read more
The Top Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Truck Loan in Australia
The Top Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Truck Loan in Australia
Commercial vehicle loans in Australia are a vital component in the Continuum of the transportation and logistics industry. They provide businesses and individuals with the necessary funds to acquire trucks and other heavy vehicles critical for their operations. Understanding the nuances of these loans is imperative for anyone in the market for a commercial vehicle. - read more
Understanding the Fine Print: What to Look Out for in Truck Loan Contracts
Understanding the Fine Print: What to Look Out for in Truck Loan Contracts
Stepping into the realm of commercial truck financing can be a highway riddled with complex terms and conditions. Understanding commercial truck loans is not only about getting the keys to a new vehicle; it's a crucial investment in your business's future. As a borrower, you need to navigate through the fine print to find a loan that fits like a glove. - read more
Interest Rates, Terms, and Fees: What to Look for in Commercial Vehicle Loans
Interest Rates, Terms, and Fees: What to Look for in Commercial Vehicle Loans
Choosing the right commercial vehicle loan is a pivotal decision for any business aspiring to expand its transportation capabilities. For many, commercial vehicles are integral to daily operations, and securing the best financial arrangement to acquire these assets can significantly impact the bottom line. - read more
5 Tips on Securing Low-Interest Rates for Your Vehicle Purchase
5 Tips on Securing Low-Interest Rates for Your Vehicle Purchase
Embarking on the journey of acquiring a commercial vehicle is a significant decision for any business. Securing a loan with a low-interest rate is not just a matter of luck; it involves meticulous planning and a thorough understanding of the lending landscape. This opening section sets the scene for our deep dive into navigating the commercial vehicle loan process with an eye toward minimizing costs and maximizing value. - read more

Finance News

RBA's October 2025 Review: Navigating Global Financial Risks
RBA's October 2025 Review: Navigating Global Financial Risks
26 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has released its October 2025 Financial Stability Review, providing a comprehensive assessment of the nation's financial system amidst a backdrop of global uncertainties. The report underscores that while Australia's financial institutions remain robust, external factors pose significant risks that warrant vigilant monitoring. - read more
Leadership Turmoil at Santos: CFO Sherry Duhe Steps Down
Leadership Turmoil at Santos: CFO Sherry Duhe Steps Down
26 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
In a significant development within Australia's energy sector, Santos Limited's Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Sherry Duhe, has resigned after a brief tenure of one year. Duhe's departure is attributed to an 'untenable leadership environment' and irreconcilable differences with CEO Kevin Gallagher, raising questions about the company's internal governance and strategic direction. - read more
October 2025 Employment Surge: Impacts on Interest Rate Expectations
October 2025 Employment Surge: Impacts on Interest Rate Expectations
26 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
Australia's labor market demonstrated remarkable resilience in October 2025, with a net gain of 42,200 jobs, significantly surpassing expectations. This robust growth led to a decline in the unemployment rate from 4.5% to 4.3%, marking a reversal from the previous four-year high. The increase was predominantly driven by the addition of 55,300 full-time positions, indicating a strengthening in job quality and stability. - read more
ASIC's Investigation Highlights Issues in Car Finance Sector
ASIC's Investigation Highlights Issues in Car Finance Sector
26 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently conducted a comprehensive review of the nation's motor vehicle finance sector, uncovering significant issues that raise concerns about consumer protection and lending practices. - read more
Bank Australia Halts Loans for New Fossil Fuel Cars
Bank Australia Halts Loans for New Fossil Fuel Cars
26 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
In a bold move towards environmental sustainability, Bank Australia has ceased offering loans for new petrol, diesel, and hybrid vehicles as of February 2025. This strategic decision aligns with the bank's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2035 and underscores its dedication to promoting environmentally friendly transportation options. - read more

Start Here

Get a free truck loan eligibility assessment and compare truck finance and leasing options without accessing your credit file!!
Loan Amount:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.


Knowledgebase
Gross Domestic Product (GDP):
The total value of all goods and services produced within a country’s borders in a specific time period.