Find the money in and out
Write down the amount deposited, upfront costs, each repayment and the total due. Use the same amount and term when comparing offers. A headline rate alone won’t tell you what comes out of the account.
Look past the payment amount
Check whether the rate or repayments can change. Read the early repayment, late payment, security and guarantee clauses. Ask the provider to explain any fee you can’t match to the schedule.
Stress-test the repayments
Add the payment schedule to your cash flow forecast and try a quieter sales period. If the terms are unclear, seek advice before signing.