Blog

Here you'll find the latest news from OakbrookAdvance plus lots of hints, tips and useful guides from the Oakbrook team.

Affordability Checks Explained: 9 Powerful Insights Into What Lenders Look at Beyond Credit Score

Affordability Checks Explained: What Lenders Look at Beyond Credit Score understand lender affordability checks and loan affordability criteria that may influence your loan approval.

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Refused Everywhere for a Loan? Why It Happens and What to Do Next

Been refused for a loan? Learn why lenders may decline applications, what to do next, how to rebuild your credit and how soft searches can help.

Life After a CCJ: Borrowing in Years One, Three, and Six What to Expect and How to Move Forward

Learn how a CCJ can affect borrowing in years one, three and six, what lenders may consider, and practical steps to strengthen your credit position.

Borrowing £1,500 With Bad Credit: What's Realistic

Can you borrow £1,500 with bad credit? Learn what affects eligibility, potential costs, soft searches, affordability and your borrowing options.

Can You Apply for a Personal Loan If You Live With Your Parents and Have No Address History?

Living with your parents is more common than ever. Rising rents, the cost of buying, and the need to save it all makes staying at home the practical choice for millions of people in the UK

What One Missed Payment Actually Costs You in the UK More Than You Might Think

Find out what a missed payment could mean for your credit file, borrowing costs and finances, plus practical steps to limit the damage.

New to the UK with a Thin Credit File: A Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Credit History

New to the UK with a thin credit file? Learn how to build your UK credit history, from registering to vote to managing bills and using credit carefully.

Zero-Hours and Gig Income: What Lenders Actually Look At When Evaluating Your Loan Application

Working on a zero-hours contract or earning through gigs? Learn how lenders assess income, affordability, bank statements and credit history when applying for a loan.

How to Read Your Credit Agreement: The Six Numbers That Matter

Learn how to read a UK credit agreement and understand the six key numbers that affect your loan, including APR, repayments, total cost and loan term.

Car Finance Compensation: What the FCA Redress Scheme Means and Why You Don't Need a Claims Company

Understand the FCA car finance redress scheme, potential eligibility, compensation and how to make a complaint directly for free.

Loan Fee Fraud: Why a Real Lender Never Asks for Money Upfront

Learn how loan fee fraud works, the warning signs to look for, how to check a lender is genuine, and what to do if you've been targeted.

Your Loan Is Paid Off Now What?

Learn what happens after you pay off a personal loan, how it affects your credit file, and what steps to take next to support your financial future.

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Payday Loans vs Personal Loans UK: What's the Difference

Compare payday loans and personal loans, understand the costs, APR, repayments, and key differences before choosing a borrowing option.