Nearly 50% of residents in Bulgaria's big cities have used a consumer credit, and one third are considering applying for such, a survey, requested by Raiffeissen and conducted by Pragmatika revealed. 49.7% of respondents said that the difficulty of the application process is the leading factor for them when choosing a bank to apply with. The reason most Bulgarians borrow money is to repair or purchase a vehicle.

Demand for consumer credits is surging and this tendency is likely to persist, says Raiffeissen.

The survey was conducted in November 2007, among people aged between 18 and 60, and living in cities with population of more than 25,000 people.

Consumer credits are the second most popular bank product (number one being debit cards).

Moreover, the survey shows that 55.7% of people who used crediting once, are considering applying for a second loan.

Mortgage credits are less common – this product is preferred by people, who need a large amount of cash to make a big purchase like buying property (47.8%), business development (22.9%), or construction (22.9%). 49.5% of those who took a mortgage credit use it to make improvements in their homes and 41.8% to furnish their homes.

41.2% of clients who took consumer credits used it to buy a vehicle. Property purchases, business development, and construction initiatives are cited as a reason by less people – 36%, 22.3%, and 17.7%, respectively.

Just 6.5% of Bulgarians said they took a credit to fund a trip.

85% of respondents said interest rates, annual fees, and service charges are the most important factor when choosing a bank. Nearly 50% said the difficulty of the procedure, requirements, and the time it takes were most important to them.