By Mary Nebotakis, B. Eco, Dip. Financial Services, Managing Director, Natloans

The open road, endless freedom, and the allure of new adventures await with a caravan.

Whether you’re dreaming of cross-country exploration or just weekend escapes, a caravan makes it possible to travel comfortably and conveniently. At Natloans, we’re here to help you secure the perfect caravan loan, making your dream of mobile travel a reality.

Here’s everything you need to know about caravan loans, from types of financing to what you need to consider before hitting the road.

1. Why Choose a Caravan Loan?

Caravans offer a home on wheels, allowing you to explore without the constraints of traditional accommodation. A caravan loan helps you finance this purchase, spreading the cost over a manageable period so you can hit the road sooner. With a tailored caravan loan, you can start enjoying your purchase without having to dip too deeply into your savings.

2. Types of Caravan Loans

When it comes to financing your caravan, you have options. Here are the most popular choices:

• Secured Caravan Loan: This is the most common type of caravan loan, where the caravan itself is used as collateral. With this security, lenders often offer lower interest rates, making it a cost-effective choice.

• Unsecured Caravan Loan: If you prefer not to use your caravan as collateral, an unsecured loan is an option. While these loans generally come with higher interest rates, they can be ideal if you’re looking to keep assets separate.

• Chattel Mortgage: For business owners intending to use the caravan for business purposes, a chattel mortgage may be the best choice. This type of financing can offer tax benefits, and you own the caravan outright from day one, using it as collateral.

Each loan type comes with its own pros and cons, and Natloans can help you navigate these options to choose the best fit for your situation.

3. What Affects Your Caravan Loan Approval?

Several factors influence the approval process, including:

• Credit Score: As with any loan, your credit score plays a key role. A higher score can help you access better rates and terms.

• Income and Employment: Stable income and employment history help demonstrate your ability to repay the loan.

• Deposit: While some caravan loans don’t require a deposit, a down payment can help reduce your loan amount and improve your interest rate.

4. Loan Terms and Interest Rates

Caravan loans generally come with terms ranging from 1 to 7 years, allowing for flexibility based on your budget and goals. Interest rates can vary based on the type of loan, loan term, and your credit profile. At Natloans, we work with a range of lenders, so we can help you compare rates and secure the best possible option for your needs.

5. The Application Process: Quick and Simple

Applying for a caravan loan with Natloans is a streamlined experience. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect:

• Initial Consultation: Speak with a Natloans specialist to discuss your caravan dreams and financial situation. We’ll help identify the best type of loan for you.

• Pre-Approval: We guide you through a quick pre-approval process, giving you an idea of how much you can borrow and what your repayments may look like.

• Document Submission: Once you’re ready, submit any necessary documents, including ID, proof of income, and bank statements.

• Approval and Funding: With everything in place, your loan will be approved, and the funds will be available to purchase your caravan.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I buy a used caravan with a caravan loan?

Yes, you can use a caravan loan to finance both new and used caravans.

• What happens if I want to sell the caravan before the loan term ends?

You can sell the caravan, but you’ll need to pay off the outstanding loan balance, or you may be able to transfer the loan to the buyer, depending on the terms.

• Can I pay off my caravan loan early?

Some loans allow early repayment, but others may charge an exit fee. We can help clarify this before you commit to a loan.

7. Why Choose Natloans for Your Caravan Loan?

With Natloans, you gain access to a dedicated team of finance professionals who understand the ins and outs of caravan loans. We take the time to assess your unique needs, offering personalized guidance to secure a loan that aligns with your budget and goals.

Our wide network of lenders means we can provide you with competitive rates and flexible terms, allowing you to focus on planning your first adventure.

Ready to Begin Your Caravan Journey?

The road is waiting—let Natloans help you get there. Reach out today to start your caravan loan application, and take the first step towards exploring Australia’s beauty in your very own caravan!

By Mary Nebotakis, B. Eco, Dip. Financial Services, Managing Director, Natloans

As we approach the final months of 2024, it’s the perfect time to consider how a personal loan can help you meet your financial goals before the year’s end. At Natloans, we offer tailored loan solutions designed to simplify your finances and provide flexibility as you plan for the future. Whether you’re consolidating debt or investing in home improvements, here are five smart ways to leverage a personal loan and finish the year strong.

1. Consolidate Debt Before the Holiday Season

The holidays are just around the corner, and if high-interest debt is weighing you down, consolidating multiple loans into a single personal loan can simplify your payments and reduce financial stress. By opting for a personal loan with a competitive interest rate—starting as low as 6.75% P.A.—you can reduce monthly payments, improve cash flow, and free up funds for holiday expenses.

2. Fund Home Improvements Before Summer

Planning to entertain guests over the holidays or simply want to increase the value of your property before the New Year? A personal loan can finance last-minute home renovations, whether it’s upgrading your kitchen, refreshing your outdoor area, or completing other improvements. With Natloans’ flexible loan options, you can get your project done in time for summer and enjoy the results for years to come.

3. Cover Unplanned Medical Costs

Life can be unpredictable, and medical emergencies often happen when we least expect them. If you’ve recently faced unexpected medical bills, a personal loan could provide the immediate financial relief you need, helping you focus on recovery. With interest rates starting from 6.75% P.A., a personal loan from Natloans offers a reliable solution to manage urgent healthcare expenses.

4. Invest in Your Education or Career

Want to boost your career or upgrade your skills before the year’s end? A personal loan can help finance educational courses, professional certifications, or skill-based workshops that position you for success in 2025 and beyond. By investing in yourself, you’re setting the foundation for future opportunities, and Natloans is here to support your growth with a loan that suits your needs.

5. Build or Strengthen Your Emergency Fund

Financial security is critical, especially in uncertain times. A personal loan can be a smart way to establish or replenish your emergency fund, ensuring you’re prepared for unexpected expenses in the future. With lower interest rates compared to credit cards, starting at 6.75% P.A., a personal loan can be a more cost-effective option for building a financial safety net.

Why Choose Natloans?

At Natloans, we offer a range of personal loan products that come with added benefits, including:

• 24-hour formal approval
• No lock-in contracts
• No early-exit fees
• No account-keeping fees
• Fixed and variable rate products available

Plus, we give you access to an incredible panel of lenders with some of the best rates in the market!

Get Ahead Before 2025

Whether you’re consolidating debt, enhancing your home, or preparing for the unexpected, Natloans has the personal loan options to help you finish 2024 in control of your finances. With quick approvals and personalized plans, there’s no better time to take charge of your financial future.

Call 1300 955 791 today to explore your options and start 2025 on the right financial foot!

Tax Cuts Are Here! Maximise Your Benefits with Our Finance Solutions

We have some fantastic news to share! The Australian Government has announced significant tax cuts starting from 1 July 2024, aimed at helping all Australians manage cost-of-living pressures. This is an excellent opportunity for you, and we’re here to help you make the most of it.

What Are the New Tax Cuts?

The federal government has introduced changes to individual income tax rates and thresholds, resulting in tax cuts for all 13.6 million Australian taxpayers. Here’s what’s new:

• 19% tax rate reduced to 16%
• 32.5% tax rate reduced to 30%
• 37% tax threshold increased from $120,000 to $135,000
• 45% tax threshold increased from $180,000 to $190,000

These changes will put more money back into your pocket, whether it’s through your regular pay-check or when you file your tax return.

How Will This Benefit You?

Increased Take-Home Pay: For most of you, these tax cuts will be reflected in your take-home pay each payday, starting from 1 July 2024. This means more disposable income to support your financial goals.

Better Financial Planning: Use the additional income to save for a home, invest, or pay off existing debts. Our finance solutions can help you strategically manage this extra cash flow.

How Natloans Can Help You

As your trusted finance brokerage, we’re committed to helping you navigate these changes and make the most of your finances. Here’s how we can assist:

• Expert Advice: Our team can provide personalised advice on how to maximise your tax savings and apply them towards your financial goals.
• Tailored Solutions: Whether you’re looking to buy a home, asset, refinance, or invest, we offer a range of finance solutions to suit your needs.
• Ongoing Support: We’ll keep you informed about any further changes and how they may impact your financial situation.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Contact us today to learn more about how these tax cuts can benefit you and how our services can help you achieve your financial dreams. Let’s work together to turn these savings into meaningful progress towards your goals.

From Mary Nebotakis, Managing Director.

So, the holiday season has snuck up on you this year. That’s OK, such is the case for thousands of Australians all around the nation this year, but lucky for, you’ve stumbled across Natloans’ array of Christmas Loans! Let’s run through some scenarios, and then address a Natloans solution for each:

Scenario 1 – Gift, Meals, and Decorations

Problem:

Let’s say that you’re having your family around for Christmas. Ok. What’s required. Well firstly you’ll need gifts for everyone, then you’ll need to pay for a meal to feed the entire clan, and on top of that, you’re going to need to decorate to impress. The only problem; you don’t have the money to afford the whole lot. What can you do?

Solution:

This sounds like a job for a Personal Loan Solution. With a Personal Loan, Natloans will connect you to a lender who will, should you meet their very reasonable conditions, grant you a sum of money to help you afford your Christmas expenditures; at your discretion.

Scenario 2 – Family Abroad

Problem:

Perhaps grew up out in rural Tasmania, and moved to a city like Melbourne for work. Or maybe you’re a Kiwi or English emigré to Australia. Either way, the result is that you’re away from your family, and are sure to miss them during Christmas time. You want to fly back home, but you can’t afford it; what can you do?

Solution:

This sounds like a perfect fit for a Travel Loan Solution! These Christmas Loans are a variety of Personal Loans, specially designed to accomodate travelling costs, and are your best bet for getting the quick cash needed to spend Christmas the way it should be: with your family.

Scenario 3 – Christmas Ruins Your Saving Plan For A New Car

Problem:

Let’s say that you can afford all the regular expenditures for Christmas (gifts, meals, decor, etc.), but the buying of which will set you back on your savings for a new car you’ve been eyeing all year. What can you do?

Solution:

Lucky for you, with a Natloans Car Loan, you don’t need to count every penny for a car. As long as you can put down a reasonable deposit, and are making an appropriate income, a Car Loan will ensure that you get your hands on the new car in the new year, and can worry about the total bill later!

Scenario 4 – Need Some Business Cash Flow To Get Through The Year

Problem:

As all business owners know, the Christmas season can be a really rough time for business. Many of your staff may be on holidays, many people might not be buying as much, and in general, you may not be meeting budget for the month, as a result of all these factors. What can you do?

Solution:

Natloans offers a wide range of business cash flow loans, which are loans that allow for money to be transferred, and injected right into your business. This means that for however long you need, you will be able to cover the expenses of the Season, or even use the funds to expand your business as it exists currently.

Scenario 5 – Looking To Buy Something Really Nice For Yourself This Christmas

Problem:

Maybe you feel like you’ve worked hard this year, and deserve to reward yourself for all your efforts. You’ve already got a car, you’re paying the way for your family, and you’ve no need for travel loans. So what else is there?

You know what you want this Christmas. You’ve been dreaming for a while now about a new motorbike, or boat, or jet ski for a few months — but how will you be able to afford that?

Solution:

In this case, Natloans has three words for you; Leisure Loan Solutions. Whether its a bike, boat, caravan, or jet ski, Natloans has you covered with a range of personally tailored Loan Solutions.

Interested?

No matter what your situation is this Holiday Season, Natloans has you covered. If you need extra money, or finance of any kind this Christmas, don’t hesitate! Call us at 1300 955 791 today! Merry wishes to all!

What Is A Credit Score?

Your credit score is the rating which lenders will assign to, which is calculated based on your history in finance, and takes into account your history of repayment, the types of loans which you take out, and your general ongoings in the world of finance.

Having a good credit score is fundamental to maintaining an ability to receive finance, because it is understood as being the first reference which lenders use to determine your worthiness for the reception of a loan. But, what constitutes a good credit score? Let’s find out.

Credit Score General Rankings

Here is a general guideline which most lenders agree upon. It will outline what is determined as optimal, and will lay out what the consequences of each ranking are.

1. Great! (600-999)

A client with such a credit score can expect the absolute best outcomes  as it respects the lowest rates, and the most favourable terms.

2.    Good (500-599)

Rates, and terms will not be the very best, but are still very fair.

3.    Poor (<500)

An individual who finds themselves in this category will be unlikely to receive a loan that is not secured for the lender. This means that personal loans, and unsecured business, or car loans are off the table. Moreover, one can expect to be granted higher interest rates, and less ideal loan terms.

An individual below the line of ‘very poor’ is unlikely to be able to receive finance. Or, at least, they will face difficulty in doing so.

How To Check My Credit Score?

Now that the degree to which one’s credit score is important has been established, and an understanding of the hierarchy of credit scores, in the eyes of lenders, has been drawn up; how can one find out where they stack up?

It is, in fact, possible to contact a lender, and find out from them what one’s credit rating looks like. HOWEVER, THIS IS NOT A RECOMMENDED COURSE OF ACTION. The reason that this is the case is because when one checks their own credit, it will NEGATIVELY AFFECT ONE’S CREDIT RATING.

As unfortunate as that may be, the fact of the matter is that, for some reason, lenders disapprove of, and distrust clients who look into their credit ratings as such, and the action itself will lower one’s rating.

There is no need to lose hope however, as there is another course of action which one can take, which will not damage their credit rating. This simple process is called a broker inquiry, distinct from a client inquiry. Simply call a broker, and request for them to inquire into your credit score.

Because it is a broker, and not yourself who is technically checking the credit, this inquiry will not damage your score in any way, but still give you the knowledge that you need. If such an inquiry interests you, then don’t hesitate to call Natloans today at 1300 955 791, where we will be happy to inquire on your behalf absolutely free!

What Can Damage My Credit Score?

There are many ways in which your credit score can be both negatively, or positively affected, but the main ways in which yours can be damaged are as follows:

• Defaults

A default is a situation in your credit history wherein you have taken out a loan, and failed to pay it back. This is, for the obvious reason of you setting a precedent of not paying back loans, probably the most damaging mark upon your credit score.

• AfterPay

As convenient as it may seem, the unfortunate truth of the matter is that AfterPay is considerably damaging to your credit score. This is because, even if you withdraw but a small amount, and pay it back quickly, AfterPay is considered to be an outstanding liability according to lenders — even months after you’ve paid them back. Therefore, it behooves the reader to exercise caution respecting the system.

• No credit card

This is a situation which doesn’t necessarily damage your rating, but not having a credit card certainly prevents you from boosting your rating. This is because overtime that you use your credit card, and are able to honour your usage, it will make your credit rating go up, even for small transactions. It is therefore a good idea, if you wish you boost your credit rating, to start using a credit card.

• Poor Credit Card Balance

If you DO have a credit card, and it happens to be approaching its limit, then this can definitely hurt your credit score. Always keep in mind that when it comes to your credit card utilisation ratio; lower is better.

• Too Many Inquiries On Your Credit File

Inquiring by yourself as to you credit file can drop your score by anywhere from 20-60 points. Doing so frequently, even on three seperate occasions, can therefore lower your credit rating by nearly 200 points.

• PayDay Loans

These are a sort of loan wherein one will receive a decidedly small sum of money at a very high interest rate, and will be expected to pay it back when they receive their next paycheque. Having many of these show up on your credit history will damage your score because it implies to lenders that you are often out of pocket, and need assistance to get through the weeks. Having failed to pay back a PayDay Loan will result in the effects of not paying a regular loan, in tandem with those of having taken out a PayDay Loans. Hence, not good. In fact, if you have used a PayDay Loan within sixth months of trying for a bigger Loan, like a Personal, Car, or Business Loan, you are almost guaranteed to be declined.

Conclusion

Hopefully now, after having read this article, one will have a more complete understanding of the importance of their credit rating, the factors affecting their credit, and what category means what, as it respects credit ratings.

If one lesson only is taken from this, then it must be that one should never make a direct inquiry as to their credit rating. If one is really interested to know, remember; Natloans works it out for free!

What is a Leisure Loan?

Leisure loans will cover you for the purchase of bikes, boats, jet skis, caravans, and other such assets. They are a category of loan wherein one is granted possession of an asset classified as a leisure item, and is obligated to repay their lender for the item after being granted therewith. This is distinct from a Personal Loan, which will grant one with a particular sum of money for discretional use, and is also distinct from a Car Loan, as in general, cars are not classified as being leisure vehicles.

How Do Leisure Loans Work?

As mentioned previously, a leisure loan will generally work along the same lines as a Car Loan, wherein you will be granted possession of the asset itself, and expected to pay your lender back across a number of instalments, to cover for the price.

It must be emphasised that a Leisure Loan is not a Personal Loan, and you should not expect to receive a lump sum for discretional spending upon a successful settlement of your loan.

What Are The Typical Rates For Leisure Loans?

As with most loan categories, Leisure Loan rates will vary depending on the asset in question, but, as a general rule of thumb, the typical rates for Leisure Items, as offered by Natloans are as follows:

• Bikes – From ~5.50%

• Boats – From 5.85%

• Jet Skis – From 5.85%

• Caravans – From 5.99%

Interested?

If you’re keen to hop on a new jet ski, camp out in a new caravan, ride on a new bike, or captain a new boat; then Natloans is just one call away! Our veteran team of finance brokers has been helping Australians country-wide to get their hands on the Leisure loans of their dreams, so what are you waiting for? Call us today at 1300 955 791! See you soon!

The Holiday Season is very nearly upon us. Whether it be money for Christmas, Chanukah, or any other celebration, a lot of folks may find themselves a little out of pocket when the day rolls by. Maybe your kids have written up their wish lists, or your parents have made a request for lunch, or your spouse has come up with some ideas for decorations, and altogether; the burden has proven to be just too much.

Maybe your family lives far away from you and can’t afford to fly out to share the holiday with them. Or maybe it’s not any of those things; perhaps you have your eyes on a gift for yourself! A new car, a boat, a bike or even a holiday, but just don’t have the budget to make it all happen. What can you do?

Here Are Some Options

Of course, you could try to save, but more likely than not, the time for that has already passed. You could ask for money, but asking to get in order to give seems, on its face, somewhat counterintuitive. So what does that leave you with?

Natloans has a variety of brilliant loan options and services which are designed to help you make sure that your holidays are merry as ever!

• Gifts for friends and family? Ask about our Personal Loan options!

• Travelling to see family? Ask about our Travel Loan options!

• Still eyeing that new car? We’ve been ranked number 1. by AFG for ‘vehicle and equipment finance’,  on the merit of our Car loans!

• New boat? Bike? Caravan, or jet ski? Call Natloans today and ask about our Leisure Loan options!

No matter what it is that you need or want, Natloans has you covered these holidays. If you need extra money for Christmas, call Natloans today at 1300 955 791. Happy holidays and see you soon!

Get On A New Motorbike This Year

The roaring twenties are just around the corner! Interest rates are low, hopes are high, and altogether; there’s no better way to kick off the new decade than by getting your hands on a brand new motorbike! It’s a close-held dream for many, a secret, or fantasy for some, but with the right guidance and persistence, a brand-new motorbike of any kind could be yours, easier than ever!

How Can I Do It?

With most banks and brokers, a motorbike is classified as being a “Leisure Item”, and therefore falls under the category of “Leisure Loan”, should you seek a loan to fund it. This category is reserved for personal expenses upon items intended for one’s enjoyment, like bikes, caravans, boats, and jet skis. They differ from personal loans in that they are secured by the capital by which they are purchased, and in the fact that a personal loan is generally a sum of money granted by itself for an express purpose, whereas as in general a leisure loan is given towards the purchase of a specific item.

Here at Natloans, our dedicated team has been hooking up customers with prime rates on leisure loans for the last two decades, and with that experience, skill, and devotion, we’ll be happy to help you get your hands on the loan you need, to buy the bike you want. No matter what your circumstances.

So what are you waiting for? Make the new decade the best of your life today! It’s as easy as a phone call to Natloans.

What is ‘Buy now, pay later’?

Buy now pay later is a system of payment, facilitated by certain providers, which allows for one to purchase a product at any given time, only having to pay for after the fact, when one is better suited to do so. Sometimes it is paid for all at once, and sometimes the payment is completed via a series of small instalments. This service can be undergone for as long as eight weeks in some cases, and at times, even longer, depending on the retailer and the provider of the service. There is often a cap upon how the price at which buy now pay later is an acceptable option.

Pros

The chief and obvious benefit of buy now pay later is that it allows one to, in the moment, make a purchase of an item which they would be otherwise unable to buy. This seems particularly useful for young people and lower income earners as it stretches the scope of possibility for them, and enhances their buying power.

Another benefit of many providers of after pay is that it often comes without interest or fees, and indeed, without needing to wait hefty stretches of time in order to receive their items.

Cons

The chief detriment of after pay, it must be said, is one which is invisible to the overwhelming majority of its potential users. The fact is, that the use of buy now pay later products sharply decreases one’s ability to receive a loan or finance, however unfair or unreasonable that may seem. The fact is, that when a lender can see on one’s credit history that they’ve made use of the service, even if it were for only a small sum of $500, and over the course of four weeks months prior, the lender is very likely to count this payment as a liability, and refuse to give you finance, even if your payment is completed successfully.

Another detriment, although in control of the user and therefore not intrinsic to the system of buy now pay later, is the fact that through its wanton use, one can rack up a very hefty debt, through the process of purchasing things which they, in reality, may not be able to afford.

So?

Whilst buy now pay later may be, for some people, a very handy and convenient system which seems to enhance their purchasing power, the sharp detriments associated herewith must be kept in mind. If buy now pay later is made use of, it must be used with utmost care and premeditation.

Get Into A New Boat This Spring

Introduction

The real Australia is, above all else; a nation defined by its shores and beaches. All of our great country’s major cities sit hereupon, and amongst its nearly 25 million citizens hardly one can be named who doesn’t love a good day out on the sand. Indeed then, it’s no surprise that Australia is, simultaneously, a nation in love with boats and boating; from fishing to speed-boating, and cruising to sailing, almost each and every one of us has dreamt of what it could be like to captain our own vessel, and launch of from the pink and pleasant sands into the rolling, azure hills of Pacific, even if it were only for a little.

It is no exaggeration to say that the boat is a fundamental part of living the Australian dream; of course, Captain Cook first discovered this land by boat, and the first settlers hereof all came in the first fleet by boat. More than that, many if not most of the later settlers and migrants to our great country made their ways here on boats, and many had their first experience of the land of the southern cross in one its great cities’ harbours. So how can you get your hands on a boat of your own this spring? How can you live in the spirit of Australia and set sail in the oncoming heat? Read on to find out.

Considerations

There are several considerations to account for when seeking to purchase a boat of one’s own. Firstly, the use of the boat. Will it be for oneself alone, or for a family or group of friends? Is it for fishing, or joyriding? Luxury, or utility? These are all factors to consider in deciding upon the specific make and size of the boat which one intends to purchase. The build of the boat will, of course, serve to inform the price range at which one will be looking. For example, a luxury yacht meant for the whole family will call for a decidedly higher price than a one-man fishing or speed boat, with a speedboat costing around $20,000 on average, whilst a yacht’s price can often range well into the millions. In addition to the upfront cost, theres also that of maintenance; repairs, fuel, spare parts, stock and more, which, in totality, can rack up to a rather high price in the long run.

How Natloans Can Help You

Now that considerations have been taken, and a decision as to what you wish to purchase has been made, it’s time to work out where to find the money for your boat loan. The fact of the matter is, bar in exceptional cases, one very rarely has the loose change hanging around to afford a brand-new boat upfront. So what are your options? The first is saving, of course, but to really be able to get what you want, right now when you want it; the best option is to take out a loan.

Natloans’ Asset Department has specialised for many years in delivering stellar results in specifically tailored boat loan solutions to customers, under the category of ‘Leisure Loans’. No matter what type or size or brand of boat you’ve decided on, our team will have you covered with loan solutions to fit any person’s needs, wants, and means! Call us now to get yourself into a boat this Spring!