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7 Ways to Improve your Chances to Qualify for a Yacht Loan

Last Updated on Wednesday, 31 December 1969 15:59 Written by Alex Smith Monday, 09 November 2009 09:56

1.Two years ago getting a boat loan was substantially easier than it is now, however is is not impossible to get one now. Following these seven tips should increase your chances at qualifying and getting your dream yacht.

1.Two years ago getting a boat loan was substantially easier than it is now, however is is not impossible to get one now. Following these seven tips should increase your chances at qualifying and getting your dream yacht.

2. Know what's on your credit report. If you find any accounts that you did not open or any amounts that you did not charge, you will need to submit a form to all three credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, and Transunion) to dispute the account or charges, as need be. Each reporting agency may give a different result and may find different accounts. A bank will run all three and so should you.

2. Focus on your FICO score, which is the measurement of your financial stability and your ability to repay the loan. You can improve your score by paying down debt, having accounts with zero balances, and always paying your bills on time.

3. Increase the amount that you put down on the loan. By showing that the bank will not be the only one who will commit financially to the loan, you are able to show them that you are more likely to repay it. 20% or more is best.

4. Banks take more than just credit score and income into the criteria they use to assess risk. Previous boat loan experience is a positive, or at least comparable borrowing experience. They will also look into your employment history, previous payment history, and cash reserves.

5. Put together the documents detailing your current financial position. This includes your year to date earnings, your last two years of tax returns, and your investments including cash, stocks, annuities, IRA's, 401k's etc. Also understand that you are not just proving you capacity to pay back the loan, but pay back the loan and take good care of the yacht, because if you default the bank will own the boat.

6. Understand how bank look at your debt and income. A bank will want to see that your monthly debt payments are not greater than 40% of your monthly earnings.

7. Find the right company to represent you. Only a few lending institutions provide boat loans, and most independent brokers will request a loan quote with each of them. This means that having two agents will not help you (and can often hurt your chances of getting a good loan). It is important that you select an agent or brokerage that has a long history of dealing with yacht loan lenders and a good track record of successful loans. Remember, a good broker is your advocate.

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