Financial Security

Focus on the long-term cost of the loan, not the monthly payment. “Many car dealers and mortgage lenders will entice borrowers by asking how much they can afford to pay each month,” added Kincaid. “It may be better to pay slightly more money each month, but for a shorter time period, if it means you will be paying less in total interest.”

She also said that some people look so much at the monthly payment that they don’t notice certain fees or service charges that are imposed. “You’ve got to look at the full picture before signing a loan agreement, including the APR and provisions of the loan that can increase fees,” Kincaid said.

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