What Should I Bring to My Finance Appointment?
All buyers should bring:
- Valid government-issued drivers license
- Current paystub
- Void cheque
Depending on the specifics of your purchase, you may be required to bring additional information. For a complete list of what you’ll need to buy or trade in a vehicle with Nanaimo Toyota, call ahead of time and speak with a Sales Consultant.
Will I Be Approved?
Four main factors determine whether you get approved for a car loan:
- Vehicle selection: Cost, age and mileage
- Application information: Employment history, residence and income
- Credit history: Information contained in your credit file
- Down payment: Total of cash and trade equity
For the best chance of approval, and the lowest monthly payment possible, try to select a vehicle that fits your budget. Also, provide as large of a down payment as you can.
How Are My Car Payments Calculated?
Once you’re approved for a car loan, three factors will affect your monthly payment (in order of importance):
- Amount financed
- Term or length of contract
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
We offer competitive rates from a variety of finance companies to fit nearly every budget and credit profile. You can learn more about your personal finance options at Nanaimo Toyota.
How Do I Budget for Car Payments?
The rule of thumb from most financial institutions is to spend no more than 15% of your gross monthly income on your car payment. For example, if you make $2,000 a month you should spend no more than $300 on your car payment.
What Is My Credit Score?
Your credit score is a number that helps financial institutions predict the risk associated with your purchase of a car, house, credit card, etc. Typically, your credit score ranges from about 350 to 850, and is essentially meant to forecast how (and if) you will pay your bills. In general, the higher your credit score, the more likely you are to get approved for a car loan.
The systems that generate your credit score look at your credit report, and take several factors into account when determining your credit score, including, for instance, your payment history, and the number of inquiries made on your credit report.
How Is My Credit Score Calculated?
Your credit score is a number that ranges from about 350 to 850. In general, the higher the number, the more likely you are to get approved for a car loan. The systems that generate your credit score look at your credit report and take several factors into account, including:
- The timeliness of your payments, including late payments
- The amount and type of debt you have
- The number and age of your credit accounts
- Inquiries created by applying for credit
- Public records such as liens and judgments
Should I Finance or Lease?
Do you prefer to drive a new vehicle that will always be under warranty every few years? That’s one advantage of leasing. Do you prefer to build up equity and drive one car for a long time? Then consider financing.
There are all sorts of factors to consider when choosing between financing and leasing. Luckily, we have a team of finance experts who are happy to help you find the best option for you. Click here to contact us to learn more about this.
Can I Qualify for Financing on my First Vehicle?
Of course. Many Nanaimo Toyota customers qualify for financing on their first vehicle purchase.
If a normal credit determination cannot be made based on your current credit history, you may still qualify for other programs, like those for recent college graduates.
Stipulations for college students vary by finance company. Check with a finance professional here at Nanaimo Toyota for more information.
