Car financing in Kenya: Evaluating the value of additional expenses

Car financing in Kenya: Evaluating the value of additional expenses

By Sam Amira

NAIROBI, Kenya, May 17 – Buyers purchasing a car in Kenya often find themselves pondering whether to opt for car financing or save up to make a cash purchase. While both options have their advantages and disadvantages, financing provides several benefits that enable buyers to afford a car without straining their finances, while also building their credit history. Conversely, cash buyers who have ample funds enjoy immediate satisfaction without the burden of loans.

One notable advantage of financing a car is the chance to establish creditworthiness. By taking out a car loan and consistently making timely payments, buyers demonstrate their ability to handle debt responsibly. This not only improves their credit score but also facilitates future loan approvals and access to credit. On the contrary, cash purchases do not contribute to building credit, as no loan or repayment is involved.

Financing allows ambitious individuals to allocate their money toward other important goals. Rather than depleting a significant portion of their savings on a car purchase, buyers can utilize their cash for essential expenses like home improvements, education plans, medical insurance, or creating an emergency fund. With financing, buyers can distribute the car’s cost over time, making financial management easier and enabling them to achieve their monetary objectives.

“Taking a wider perspective, financing a car can be a prudent financial decision. Not only does it help build credit, but it also frees up cash for essential expenses, allowing buyers to acquire their desired car without compromising on quality. At Autochek Kenya, we prioritize the safety and reliability of the vehicles we finance, ensuring that our customers obtain dependable cars that suit their needs,” Nickson Leshan, Senior Credit and Underwriting Manager at Autochek Kenya said.

Financing also presents an opportunity to acquire a high-quality vehicle. Reliable financiers like
Autochek Kenya conduct thorough inspections and provide inspection certificates before investing in a car, assuring buyers of its excellent condition and reliability. This instills confidence in buyers, as they can trust that they are purchasing a trustworthy vehicle. In contrast, cash buyers may lack the expertise to thoroughly assess a car’s quality, making it challenging to determine its value as an investment. Often, they need to rely on third-party inspections, which may not always be comprehensive or unbiased.

Furthermore, financing through a reputable lender allows buyers to make manageable installment payments. With flexible repayment terms, buyers can select a payment schedule that suits their financial situation, facilitating budgeting and financial management.

Financing also empowers buyers to choose a car based on their preferences rather than just their immediate affordability. With financing, buyers are not limited by their savings amount, which can restrict their options. They can select a car that fulfills their needs and preferences, regardless of the upfront cost. Autochek offers up to 80% financing, requiring buyers to raise only a manageable down payment.

Another advantage of financing is the expedited acquisition of the desired car. Through a lender like Autochek Kenya, buyers can secure their chosen vehicle within three working days. This is particularly advantageous for those in urgent need of a car who cannot afford to wait until their savings reach the required amount.

While cash buyers must shoulder additional costs such as inspections, installing a tracker, and
purchasing insurance from their own pockets, those who opt for financing can have these expenses incorporated into the loan facility. Accessible through reputable financing companies, these benefits are complemented by competitive interest rates, affordable repayment terms, and pre-inspected, high-quality vehicles.

A cash purchase for a vehicle, suits individuals with a comfortable disposable income, while financing offers an opportunity not only to establish credit but also to fuel other financial goals. By selecting a reliable lender like Autochek Kenya, buyers can enjoy additional advantages such as prompt car acquisition and pre-purchase inspections guaranteeing the vehicle’s excellent.

Amira is Autochek Marketing & Partnership Manager