first direct loans

A question about : first direct loans

I am thinking about taking a loan with First Direct.

Does any one know if they have a very strict lending criteria?

Their best rate is 3.6% - is that rate only for those with a high credit score?

*My credit score is in the upper Good range
*I have never defaulted on credit card and loan payments
*My credit cards are cleared each month
*I have a residential mortgage and a BTL mortgage
*I work fulltime

Does any one know if I am in with a good chance of getting that 3.6% loan rate?

I don't want to apply and then not get offered that rate and their checks leave a footprint on my credit file.

Best answers:

• What's your income and how much do you have left over each month?
  How much are you wanting to borrow over how long?
• No-one will be able to tell you whether you'll be accepted for the 3.6% rate or not, unfortunately.
• My income is Ј26k
• I looked on the apply online section of FD's online banking portal for a loan late last year which showed a rate of 9.9% when they were advertising 3.9% as their headline rate. i didnt take it any further at that stage.
  I done the same thing last weekend and it quoted their headline rate of 3.9% - hit apply and the funds were in my account a few moments later after I had read and digitally signed the loan agreement.
  I "think" the online banking portal does a soft search to propose the rate they would give you but can't say that 100%.
• FD are a fab bank, i have used them for years, but i found them to be very fussy about loans!! I have had two loans of them but always found the application process somewhat arduous!! Lots of seemingly random questions and a general feeling of 'what you want us to lend you money?? Real Money??' This was for small affordable loans which i could easily afford and ultimately i got them both, it was just a bit...odd?