Taking a loan can win you lender’s trust

Most of us try to be careful about paying dues on time, but the strike rate is rarely 100%. Some late payments have a temporary effect, maybe a one-time fine. But there are others that have short-term as well as long-term repercussions. For example, on a home loan, if you are late in paying the installment, you have to pay a penalty and it affects your credit score in the long run.

Here are a few ways you can ensure that your score remains on the higher side of the scale.

Pay on time

If you are a salaried employee who gets her pay once in about 30 days, then it is easier to schedule loan payments such as for a Housing Loan and an auto loan. But what about those who are away for long periods, say, on a merchant ship? Or those who have seasonal employment?

Know the details

Reading the details will mean you know about grace periods, penalty rates, interest rate calculation and more. Most of this is available in the loan documents and the lender’s website. You can also call the customer service center for help.

Use credit cards wisely

This is probably one of the most common loans that people take. But it is also the least understood.

Many individuals, who have had bad experiences with this product, shun it absolutely. If you had issues with paying your credit card dues in the past, and are wary of using it again, it won’t help your credit score.

Your basket of loans

Your credit profile also depends on the types of loans, i.e., your mix of secured and unsecured loans. Secured loans are those that have collateral attached, such as a home or a car loan. If you default, the lender can take away the ‘asset’. Unsecured loans, such as credit card or personal loan, are riskier for the lender because they don’t have attached collateral.

[Source: http://www.livemint.com/Money/68QAwMldEIeKmOUwye4nhO/Taking-a-loan-can-win-you-lenders-trust.html]