The following is an example of a predatory loan offer. Recognizing these characteristics of predatory lending is the first step to helping you avoid these misleading tactics. Take notice of the high pressure and misleading sales pitch (in bold). Also, be sure to notice that loan terms (fees, interest rates, and payment conditions) are not given upfront.
An Example
Dear Homeowner,
Do you want extra cash? AAA Lender can help you get the money you have been hoping for. Our free services have already helped thousands of homeowners get low-interest loans to consolidate bills and get out of debt.
We are a top-rated professional referral agency, and our mission is to provide homeowners, like yourself, with carefully selected lenders. We use the best network of affiliated mortgage banking companies in the country! We have hundreds of lenders across the United States ready to meet your needs.
We can provide you with lenders who will loan you up to 125% of your home's value!
Best of all, our lenders offer the lowest interest rates available and they can set you up with an incredibly low monthly payment!
There are no upfront fees! This means you won't pay a dime, so you have absolutely nothing to lose! You may qualify for up to 125% of the value of your home or $100,000, even if you have no equity in your home, even if you have a bad credit history.
Here are just some of the ways you could put this cash to use:
- Home improvements
- Credit card debt
- College tuition
- Dream vacation
- A new car
- Start your own business
- Or whatever else you need
You owe it to yourself to request your free loan evaluation. It's free and you have nothing to lose. Call us now and find out how easy it is. Act now! This is a limited time offer.
Your loan can often be approved within 24 hours, and you can have the cash in your hands within 1-2 weeks!
Sincerely,
AAA Lender
How to Avoid Predatory Loans:
- Pay your bills on time to ensure you have a good credit history. Make sure your credit history is accurate by reviewing your credit report every year.
- Be careful of lenders who tell you they don't care about your credit history or how much you earn. Many of these places charge higher interest and higher fees.
- Be an informed consumer. Make sure to shop around for the best deal. If a lender is unwilling to give you the information you need to comparison shop, you probably don't want to do business with him or her.
- Don't respond to advertisements that make lending sound cheap and easy.
- Most credit insurance is optional. Lenders cannot require you to purchase credit insurance from their company. There may be better alternatives to credit life insurance, such as a life insurance policy purchased separately.
- Be careful of home improvement contractors that promise to get you a loan.
- Take your time before deciding on the best loan or lender. Don't let lenders pressure you into a decision before you are ready.
- Ask friends, family, and credit counselors for advice before applying for a loan. Take someone along with you when you talk to a lender.
- Keep copies of all documents lenders give to you.
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