An Installment loan is an agreement that covers a loan that is paid in a scheduled payment-the terms of this agreement range from a few months to 30 years. 

There are several types of installment loan. These are a personal loan, car loan, and mortgage. Whichever an individual plans to apply, he/she will repay the loan via an installment basis.

Are you thinking of applying for an installment loan? Have you already decided where to acquire your loan? If you are still thinking about where to apply for a loan, then you are in the right place. 

The Best Place to Acquire a Loan

Many institutions offer installment loans. Each has its pros and cons. It only depends on the applicant where they are most comfortable.

Take into account the interest rates that you need to pay. It is okay to pay for an interest rate since it is the only way the institution can make money from but only do so if it is right and just. 

Let's go through the safest and most desirable places to apply for your loan.

Banks

Bank is one of the top options of borrowers. People often think of a bank as the first choice of loans. But before you decide if this is the best option for you, study its pros and cons first.

  • Pros: The advantage of applying for a loan in a bank is that you will have no more obligation to the institution when you already paid your loan.

After you pay off the money that you borrowed from them, you will be automatically separated from them. Another pro is when you apply for a business loan. The bank won't take any ownership of the business. You don't have to give the bank equity, unlike from other loan institutions where they get to hold a part of your business.

As such, you can get the sole ownership of the business where you are using the money that you are borrowing. When it comes to the interest rate, banks offer fixed monthly interest rates. This means that the interest rate will be the same throughout the loan. 

  • Cons: The disadvantages, on the other hand, is that applying for a loan in a bank is very complicated. It is tough and very time-consuming. There will be a lot of paperwork to fill up, and the payment terms are usually stringent. The application process will also take longer. 

Banks are one of the institutions that are hard to obtain a loan from. They also

have a higher interest rate and require collateral regardless of how good or bad your credit score is. 

Credit Unions

The second popular choice of many credit unions. The members mainly control this institution. It offers competitive rate credits and other financial services.

  • Pros: In credit unions, you will become a member before you can apply for a loan. Being a member, you will have all the privileges the association can offer to all its members. You are a part-owner of the union and not just a random customer who wants to borrow money.

They have the lowest interest rates when it comes to loans and credits. Compared

to banks, credit unions cost less to have an account. In terms of customer service, credit unions have the best of it. Since you are a member and not just a customer, they will serve you with excellent service. 

  • Cons: You have to pay for a membership; this is one of its disadvantages. Before you can borrow the money, you should apply first for a membership where you will pay a fee. But there should be nothing to worry as they only request a small amount. 

Opening an account in a credit union required a minimum deposit. The minimum amount varies for every credit union. Some credit unions may not be insured, unlike banks, where they are all required to be under the insurance of FDIC. Credit unions also have minimal branches, which would be a little frustrating. 

Online Lenders

The online lender is the next option as to where to acquire an installment loan. They are famous nowadays, especially for the young generation, because this type of loan can be readily available. But just like the first two institutions, it has its advantages and disadvantages. 

  • Pros: The undeniable advantage of online lenders is that they are effortless to access. They offer their service online and also post all the details about them or the loan process to the web. 

If you are excellent in searching and investigating, you will surely find a great deal from an online lender. Being accessible online, you can compare loan offers in a blink of an eye. You can also see the reviews and ratings of a particular lender. It may be the most comfortable place to apply for a loan since it offers a quick application process. 

  • Cons: If you already have a current financial institution, it may be the best option for you because it may give you a hard time getting approval from an online lender if you have a low credit score.  

After you finish your process, an online lender may still contact you. This is from all the online lenders you may be contacted when you are still comparing the best offers. You will need to contact each lender to Exclude you for future emails or calls.

Takeaway

It doesn't matter what institution you choose because each of them has its advantages and disadvantages. You have to decide what is the most accessible institution that can offer you the best deal that fits your financial situation.

Author's bio:

Tiffany Wagner is a copywriter and blogger who is writing content focused on marketing. She is concentrating on financial issues such as loans, credit cards, credit scores, and many more.