Guide to Peer-To-Peer Lending for Personal Loans

Often there is a possibility that a person requires cash but unfortunately does not qualify for a traditional personal loan, in that case, one could turn to their peers instead of a bank, credit union, or online lender. 

Peer-to-peer, famously abbreviated as P2P, loans are funded by numerous private investors. This process makes them popular with small-scale businesses, individuals who might not fit the usual traditional mold for a loan, and investors who are looking to diversify their portfolios. However, on that note, P2P loans might seem to be more expensive than some other types of loans.

The following blog will walk you through how P2P aka peer-to-peer personal loans work, why they’ve gained in popularity over the past decade, and other alternatives to consider.

What Is P2P Lending?

As P2P lending cuts out the ordinary financial middleman of banks and credit unions, it has gained substantial momentum among various borrowers who might otherwise be casually turned away. Borrowers avoid strict credit requirements and lengthy applications by connecting with their peers. In addition, Investors benefit from potentially increased returns than other kinds of investments. 

Other than what is mentioned, Convenience is another benefactor. P2P lending platforms are easily accessible online, allowing borrowers to easily secure loans along with investors to fund loans from the comfort of their homes.

P2P loans potentially be more expensive than the usual conventional business loans, personal loans, or borrowing from their home equity. Applying for the best personal loans online is convenient and often quick, but there may be delays as investors evaluate such an opportunity.

How P2P Lending Works

The journey into P2P lending often begins by registering on a platform of their choice. 

Investors often generate a profile that includes their investment choices, such as the loan types that they want to fund and the amount that they’re willing to invest. Once the borrower has accepted, investors continuously receive monthly payments consisting of principal and interest, subtracting any fees charged by the lending platform.

Borrowers often create a profile as well, however, they must provide personal as well as financial information such as their credit score, income as well and the purpose of the loan. Once the profile is completed, borrowers can generate a loan listing that outlines their borrowing requirements. From that onwards, they’ll specify the loan amount and the interest rate that they’re willing to pay that too with their preferred loan term. After the lenders have reviewed the listing, they’ll decide whether to fund the loan partially or completely. Perspective borrowers might receive offers from various lenders.

When One Can Consider P2P Lending

P2P lending can be a feasible option for borrowers with limited credit history, borrowers who usually prefer an online as well as streamlined application process, and investors who seek to diversify and increase potential returns. Consider these different scenarios for a better understanding:

Scenario 1: The Aspiring Entrepreneur

A person is a recent college graduate with a brilliant business idea but a limited credit history. Traditional banks are uncertain about extending a loan without any substantial credit, leaving all the struggling to launch a startup. He decides to use a P2P lending platform, where his innovative business plan and commitment to success outweigh his limited credit history. Furthermore, he managed to then secure the funding he required to bring his entrepreneurial dream to life.

Scenario 2: The Busy Professional

A busy professional with limited time and a poor credit score requires a personal loan to consolidate their credit card debt as well as simplify their finances. He prefers an online application process that allows him to complete the loan application during his lunch break. Because of numerous missed credit card payments, his credit score is below the minimum needs of traditional lenders. He chooses a P2P lending platform, where he can easily apply for a loan online, receive an offer from various lenders, and choose the one that best suits his needs.