When it comes to collateral for a loan, cash is king. Secured loans require collateral, an asset the lender can seize and sell if the loan goes bad.A secured loan requires the borrower to provide an asset, such as a car or property, as collateral. With a secured loan, you must provide collateral (a valuable asset such as a home or car) as security in case you can't pay back your loan. Secured loans borrow against funds you already have. To apply for one, you must have an adequate amount of money saved up to serve as collateral. Secured and unsecured loans offer two different ways to borrow. Compare them to help decide the best borrowing option for you. A borrower can secure a personal loan with an asset like a savings account, a car or home equity. Secured loans require the borrower to put up collateral, such as a house or car, while unsecured loans do not.