What is a secured loan?
A secured loan, also known as a homeowner loan or a second-charge mortgage, is a loan that’s secured against an asset you own, such as your house. This is what’s known as collateral and means your house will be used as security, allowing you to borrow from your chosen lender. If you’re unable to keep up with the loan repayments, your asset may be taken away so that the lender can get the money they lent you back.
Secured loans provide a lower risk to the lender because you are using your asset as collateral. With that comes the potential to also receive lower interest rates than an unsecured loan.
What's the difference between a secured loan and an unsecured loan?
What to consider before applying for a secured loan
How much can you afford to borrow?
It’s important to take a good look at your current financial situation. Weigh up what amount you are hoping to borrow as well as how much you can realistically afford to pay back. Secured loans normally allow you to borrow more. But that means you’ll probably be paying back more interest, so it’s worth bearing that in mind. Our loan calculator can help you work out an estimate of what you can afford.
Work out how much your asset is worth
If you’ve decided to use your house as collateral, it could really help to find out your asset’s value before applying for a loan. Having an idea of how much your asset is worth will give you an idea of what to expect when the lender arranges an independent asset review after you’ve applied for a secured loan.
Weigh up the potential consequences
If you default on your secured loan, you could lose your home if you used it as collateral. Make sure you’ve worked out if you’re able to make the monthly repayments on your loan before applying.
Loan fees
You might be expected to pay fees with your loan, including broker fees and arrangement fees. And, if you decide to pay your loan off early, you may have to pay early payment fees too. Finally, don't forget to take into account your APR as this will affect how much your monthly repayments are. Our guide on how to understand APR may help.
Your credit score
The interest rate and terms offered on your loan will depend heavily on your credit score and credit history. Generally, the higher your credit score, the better the deal you might get. It’s worth looking at ways to boost your score as much as possible.
Your future financial situation
Be sure to think of how your finances may change in the future and if this could affect your repayments. Any major future expenses, such as starting a family, should be taken into account when working out if you can afford the loan repayments.
Comparing loans with Confused.com and Monevo
We’ve partnered with loans experts, Monevo, to offer great deals on unsecured and secured loans. With Monevo you’ll get:
- A free, no-obligation-to-apply service
- Eligibility checks, which will have no effect on your credit score
If you’re looking to apply for a secured loan, be sure to think carefully before securing debts against your home. If you’re unable to keep up with the repayments on a mortgage or any other debts secured against your home, it may be repossessed.
If you’re looking to consolidate any existing borrowing, be aware that you might be extending the terms of that debt and increasing the overall amount you repay.
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