Finance

Types of finance provided at our dealership:

HP

Understanding Hire Purchase (HP) Finance: A Path to Vehicle Ownership

Hire Purchase (HP) finance is the preferred choice for individuals seeking long-term vehicle ownership without the immediate financial capacity for an outright purchase. HP can be employed to ease the financial burden of acquiring a new or used vehicle, allowing for repayment through manageable monthly installments over the duration of the agreement.

The terms and conditions of HP finance often favor new vehicles, offering more competitive rates compared to used ones. A favorable credit score further enhances your prospects of securing an attractive deal. To grasp the mechanics of Hire Purchase finance, let's explore the three fundamental steps involved:

1. Deposit: Initiating a Hire Purchase agreement necessitates an initial deposit, unless you secure a zero-deposit arrangement, guided by the lender's recommendation. Typically, a minimum of 10% of the vehicle's value is required. Notably, a larger deposit reduces your monthly repayment burden.

2. Borrowing Amount: The deposit amount you commit to pay determines the remaining balance owed to the lender. This balance is distributed evenly over the agreed term, along with interest, which may be fixed at a predetermined rate. The contract duration offers flexibility, accommodating terms ranging from as short as 12 months to as long as 60 months (five years).

3. Contract Choices: HP serves as an excellent choice if you aspire to own a vehicle without facing a substantial "balloon payment" (also known as an optional final payment) at the contract's conclusion. Instead, an HP finance arrangement involves a considerably smaller "option to purchase" fee. However, it's important to note that until this point, you are essentially 'hiring' the vehicle, without being its legal owner. Further details on this aspect are provided in the following section.

Should you wish to return the vehicle before the contract's completion, you can do so by notifying the finance company in writing. However, this option is only available if you have paid at least half of the vehicle's value or are willing to cover the difference between your previous payments and half of the vehicle's worth. Additionally, HP finance typically does not impose mileage restrictions, which is advantageous for individuals who need to drive extensive distances for work.

What Occurs at the End of a Hire Purchase Agreement?

Once all the scheduled payments have been fulfilled, you have the opportunity to acquire the vehicle and assume full legal ownership. Up to this point, the lender holds legal ownership of the car or van. If you decide to take ownership, you will typically encounter a modest fee known as the 'Option to Purchase' fee. This fee covers administrative costs and facilitates the transition of ownership from the finance company to you, officially releasing the vehicle from their possession.

Exploring the Advantages and Disadvantages of HP Finance

Given the array of car financing options available, it is essential to identify the one that best aligns with your needs. To aid in this decision-making process, consider the following pros and cons of HP finance:

Pros:

• Flexible repayment terms, spanning from as little as 12 months to as long as 60 months.
• Option for a minimal upfront deposit, with the potential for zero deposit arrangements.
• Possibility of approval without the need for a strong credit score.
• Absence of annual mileage restrictions, benefiting high-mileage drivers.
• No requirement for a substantial 'balloon payment' to secure ownership.
• Opportunity to return the vehicle after paying at least half of its cost.

Cons:

• The vehicle remains under 'hire' status until the final end-of-contract payment.
• Risk of repossession by the lender in case of missed payments.
• Limited freedom to modify or customize the vehicle during the contract.
• Monthly payments may be relatively higher compared to other financing options.
• Smaller deposits and shorter terms lead to higher monthly payments.
• HP can be costlier for those seeking a short-term agreement.

PCP

So, you've found the perfect car, and now you're on the hunt for the ideal financing solution to put you behind the wheel. With an array of financial options at your disposal, it's crucial to pick the right one that aligns with your needs. Allow us to introduce you to Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) finance—a favored choice in the world of auto financing.

What is Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) Finance?

Personal Contract Purchase, commonly referred to as PCP, presents an appealing car financing alternative, often offering lower monthly payments compared to conventional personal loans. PCP essentially allows you to borrow money to acquire a new vehicle, which you'll repay over an agreed-upon period before gaining full ownership.

How Does PCP Work?

When you opt for PCP finance, you're essentially securing a loan from a lender to purchase a vehicle that might be beyond your immediate financial reach for a one-time payment. The lender will, of course, scrutinise your credit history to assess your creditworthiness.

PCP presents an excellent choice if you aspire to own a newer vehicle but prefer not to make a hefty upfront payment. Moreover, it offers flexibility at the end of the term. PCP finance operates through three primary components:

1. Deposit: You're required to make an initial deposit when entering into a PCP finance agreement, although some zero-deposit deals are available. The deposit amount, usually around 10% of the vehicle's purchase price, is determined by the lender. A larger deposit translates to lower monthly repayments.

2. Borrowing Amount: Depending on your upfront deposit, the amount you need to borrow is calculated. The lender considers the duration of the term, typically ranging from a minimum of 24 months (two years) to a maximum of 48 months (four years). They use this information to determine your monthly repayments, including interest.

3. Contract Choices: PCP offers flexibility at the end of the term. You can choose to purchase the vehicle in full and retain ownership, trade in the vehicle as a deposit for your next one, or simply return it to start a new agreement.

End of a PCP Agreement: Your Options

At the conclusion of a PCP agreement, you have three distinct options:

1. Lump Sum Payment: Known as a 'balloon payment,' this option allows you to make a final lump sum payment to become the legal owner of the vehicle. The amount is based on the vehicle's worth, also known as the 'Guaranteed Minimum Future Value' (GMFV), agreed upon at the beginning.

2. Part-Exchange: If you no longer wish to keep the car but desire a newer model, you can choose to part-exchange the vehicle. Ideally, you'll have built up positive equity to use as a deposit for your next finance deal, as the car's value will hopefully have appreciated.

3. Return the Vehicle: This straightforward option involves handing the car back without the need for a final balloon payment. Assuming there's no damage exceeding standard wear and tear, the finance agreement concludes. Keep in mind that you won't retain any positive equity from the car, but you also won't be concerned about depreciation.

Pros and Cons of PCP Finance

To make an informed decision in the realm of car finance, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons of PCP finance:

Pros:

• Flexible deposit options, including zero deposit choices.
• Variable repayment terms from 24 to 48 months.
• Lower monthly payments compared to other financing solutions.
• Three end-of-term options to choose from.
• Frequent car upgrades are possible.
• Potential for building positive equity for your next vehicle.
• No need to handle the car's resale.

Cons:

• A final lump sum payment is required to own the vehicle.
• Exceeding agreed-upon annual mileage incurs additional charges.
• Damage beyond standard wear and tear results in extra costs.
• PCP can be a relatively expensive way to own a car.
• Contract commitment until at least 50% of the total finance cost is paid.
• Interest rates are influenced by your credit rating.
• Failure to meet repayments may lead to repossession by the finance company.

Providing Details for PCP Finance

When applying for PCP vehicle finance, you'll need to furnish personal and financial information to the lender for eligibility assessment. Key details include:

• Full name, date of birth, and marital status
• Copy of your driving license
• Current address and proof of residence via utility bills
• Employer's name, address, job title, and salary (previous employment details may be required)
• Payslips or bank statements for income verification (typically from the last three months)
• Self-employed or sole traders must provide proof of accounts
• Details of any outstanding credit cards or loan agreements

PCP Vehicle Finance: At Your Fingertips

We are well-positioned to connect you with numerous lenders capable of funding your dream set of wheels. Keep in mind that our financing solutions extend beyond cars to encompass vans and motorbikes. Our dedicated sales support team is committed to guiding you at every step, ensuring your vehicle dreams become a reality.