Tools and guides
Understand the conditions, then explore the numbers.
Practical guides
Choose a topic for explanations, examples and questions to take to your bank.
Before you borrow
What to check in a home loan
The monthly payment is only one part of a home-buying budget.
3 min readHow to move your mortgage to another bank
The steps, documents and costs of switching a mortgage, with an example showing when a lower payment saves money and when it does not.
6 min readMatch business finance to its purpose
Everyday liquidity and long-term investment call for different questions.
3 min readPersonal loans: from repayments to total cost
Choose an amount and term, understand fees and prepare to approach a bank.
3 min readPersonal loan or instalment purchase?
Compare ways to finance the same purchase: the amount received, monthly payments and total cost.
3 min readShould you combine several debts into one loan?
One payment can simplify budgeting. Check whether it also reduces costs, extends repayment or requires property as security.
3 min readRepay early or refinance with another bank?
Compare remaining debt, exit costs and a new offer without relying only on the monthly payment.
3 min readDocuments to prepare for a loan
A practical checklist for income, property and the offer to obtain before signing.
3 min readCollateral, guarantors and property security
Understand what secures a loan, how property is valued and what to check before supporting a relative’s borrowing.
5 min readUnderstand rates and costs
APR and the nominal rate: what is the difference?
The nominal rate determines the interest on a loan. APR helps compare its cost by also accounting for the fees and charges included in the calculation.
3 min readBorrowing in lek or euros: why payments change
Separate interest-rate changes from exchange-rate changes and understand the loan’s pricing formula.
3 min readShould you move your salary to the lending bank?
Compare a salary-linked discount with the conditions and account costs that accompany it.
2 min readCards and everyday payments
Credit or debit card?
The main difference is whether you spend your own money or borrow against a credit limit.
3 min readHow to choose a credit card
Start with how you will use the card: everyday purchases, instalments or travel. Then compare interest, fees and repayment conditions.
3 min readYour card statement: what to pay and when
Understand the statement balance, minimum payment and due date. See how a higher monthly payment changes repayment time and cost.
3 min readHow to compare bank accounts
Choose around your usual transactions, not just the opening fee.
2 min read