SmartNote(SM) Program at EFG Companies Raising Some Eyebrows
SmartNote(SM), a bi-weekly payment program designed to increase equity and shorten a customer's vehicle loan term without increasing their monthly payment, makes it possible for the consumer to pay off their vehicle in a shorter period of time, thus increasing the customer trade cycle, according to EFG Companies, which offers the service.
Consumer benefits include loan terms shortened by up to eight months, no upfront costs, and increased equity in a depreciating asset. Dealers benefit from increased volume and consumer retention plus a commission of $149, according to Jim Walker of EFG Companies.
According to Walker, SmartNote(SM) is a forced savings plan jointly supported by the Economic Advantages Corporation (EAC), a service company responsible for successfully paying consumers' mortgage payments since 1989.
"EFG Companies is first and foremost an income development service company dedicated to helping automobile dealers achieve maximum profit return in their sales and F&I departments," Walker said.
About EFG Companies
EFG Companies provides training for retail automobile sales and F&I people, recruiting and development, and the products associated with those departments, including service contracts, credit insurance, and aftermarket products.
For more information, visit www.efgcompanies.com.
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