Large final payment at the end of some finance agreements, optional if you wish to own the car. Reduces monthly payments.
A balloon payment is a car-related term that refers to a large lump sum payment that is due at the end of a finance agreement or lease contract. In the UK, this payment is also known as a final payment or a guaranteed minimum future value (GMFV).
When purchasing a car through a finance agreement or lease contract, the monthly payments are calculated based on the depreciation of the vehicle over the agreed term. However, a balloon payment allows the driver to defer a significant portion of the car's value to the end of the agreement.
This means that during the term of the agreement, the driver pays lower monthly installments compared to a traditional loan or lease. However, at the end of the term, the driver must either make the balloon payment in full or choose to refinance the remaining amount.
The purpose of a balloon payment is to provide flexibility in monthly payments, allowing drivers to afford more expensive vehicles or lower their monthly financial commitments. However, it is essential to plan and budget accordingly to ensure the ability to make the final payment or consider alternative options to avoid any financial strain.