How to Improve your Chances to Get a Yacht Loan

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. Check your credit score with all three agencies: Equifax, Experian, and Transunion (Each agency will give you a different score, and may even find different accounts). It is important that you run each one and check for accounts that you did not open or charges that you did not generate. If you find any you will need to dispute them with all three agencies.

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. Put some "skin in the game." Lenders like to see that you have financial motivation to keep from defaulting on the loan. By putting down 20%, the bank sees that you have a motivation to keep repaying the loan, and if you are able to put down more than 20% many times lenders will be able to give you better terms.

4. Understand the way that a bank looks at your history. Yes, a bank looks at credit scores and your down payment percentage, but they will also look into your job stability, cash reserves, previous payment history, and borrowing experience. This means that you should not expect a loan dramatically larger than anything you have gotten at before.

5. Get ready to prove your financial position. Because a yacht loan lender might end up owning your boat (if you default), they will want to know that you have the income to not only pay back the loan, but also take care of the boat, including maintenance and insurance. You will need to provide proof of YTD earnings, two years of tax returns, and a listing of all investments (including retirement accounts).

6. Know the ratios banks use to pre-qualify individuals. All monthly operating expenses and all debt payments (including mortgage and car payments) should not exceed your 40% of your household's monthly income.

7. Find a broker that you can trust and who has good relationships with banks. Having more than one agent or broker does not help you get a better loan, as most brokers can deal with all the banks that provide yacht loans (there are only a few). The main criteria you should use when determining a boat loan broker is your ability to trust them and their relationship with the banks.