Wednesday, December 11th
2024 Boat Loan Reviews
First Approval Source
- Concierge-type service to match you with the right boat loan
- Can create a custom package that includes insurance and warranty protection
- Recommended partner of BoatUS
- 75+ five-star reviews from satisfied borrowers
First Approval Source gives you concierge-level help in finding the right financing for your boat. Based in Georgia, the company doesn't use computers to do all the heavy lifting. Instead, once you've filled out the online inquiry form, their team of actual human beings goes to work to build a package that meets your needs, not just the financing itself but also insurance and warranty protection, if you want them.
Be ready to get really personal with the online form
But, to really find out what First Approval Source can do for you, you'll have to reach out. It's easy to do that with the online form on their website, but that's where we first got the inclination that there are some specific parameters for working with them for a boat loan. Right on the initial page, it asks if you know the salesperson's name at the dealership. What if you're buying from a private seller? You'll also be asked for your driver's license (not just the number but an image upload) and Social Security numbers just a few pages in.
Skip the web and go to the phone
You'd do better to reach out to First Approval Source directly, rather than filling out the online application. You're going to hear from them anyway after you submit it, so why not just call first? That's the quickest route to finding out how much you can borrow, whether or not they'll finance your purchase of a used vessel, and so on.
They don't sell your information
There are a few things we appreciate about First Approval Source. One, they promise to keep your information secure: even though they work with multiple lenders to get you the best package for your boat loan, they're not trying to make money by selling your phone number to third-party marketing companies. That's a breath of fresh air!
Recommended by BoatUS
Two, First Approval Source is the BoatUS recommended lending option for any boat loans under $25,000. BoatUS is a leading boat owners association in the US, with over 500,000 members, and so their recommendation means something.
All 5-star ratings from dozens of clients
Third, since the last time we evaluated First Approval Source, they've earned at least 75 five-star ratings. Clients name specific representatives for being helpful and dedicated to getting them the best marine loan terms, and they go into detail on the ways that this company goes above and beyond in the lending process. We invite you to check out the reviews on Google for yourself (we also should point out that it's the only place we found reviews - First Approval Source still doesn't have any rating we could find with the Better Business Bureau or on Trustpilot).
Give them a call for an old-fashioned boat loan process
Who's the ideal First Approval Source borrower? Probably someone who wants to skip all the online stuff and go right to a service that will take the reins and find a good match for their boat loan. We're happy to see so much feedback that came in since our last review of this company, and all of it enthusiastic and positive. First Approval Source's website is missing some of the bells and whistles of more digitally-focused options for boat loans. Still, give First Approval Source a call if you'd like to get a boat loan in a more traditional, less tech-y way.
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For many, nothing compares to the feel of a boat on the open lake or ocean waters. Boating embodies a deep-seated connection with the elements, a sense of adventure, and a unique lifestyle that captivates people around the world. Boats offer a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, whether you like to escape to serene waters and relax, or explore hidden coves and coastlines.
To help people achieve owning the boat of their dreams, many companies now offer boat loans through online applications. The surge in popularity of online boat loans is dur to a number of factors. All of these can work together to help you qualify for a boat loan sooner and easier than ever before.
Boat Loan FAQ
Continued from above...
One key driver why online boat loans are so popular is the unparalleled convenience they offer. Today's consumer value efficiency and simplicity in their lives. Online boat loans provide a streamlined application process, allowing borrowers to complete the entire transaction from the comfort of their homes. Gone are the days of cumbersome paperwork and time-consuming visits to brick-and-mortar banks or other lending institutions.
Another thing that sets online boat loans apart is the speed of approval and disbursement of funds. Traditional lending often involved lengthy approval processes, causing delays that could hinder the timely purchase of a boat. Online lenders leverage technology to expedite the approval process, letting you receive a quick decision on your loan - and get quick access to your funds.
Securing a boat loan involves navigating through various financial waters, understanding the intricacies of marine financing, and ensuring a smooth sail towards ownership. Whether you're dreaming of a luxurious yacht or a modest fishing boat, here's what you need to know as you explore the world of boat loans.
Boat loans are specialized loans designed to finance the purchase of a boat. They function similarly to auto loans, with the boat itself often serving as collateral to get you a lower interest rate (a secured boat loan). Lenders assess your credit score, income, debt-to-income ratio, and the type of boat you're purchasing when determining your eligibility. A higher credit score usually results in better loan terms, including lower interest rates.
Lenders offer fixed or variable interest rates, and the loan term can range from a few years to more extended periods. Longer loan terms can result in lower monthly payments but may lead to higher overall interest payments. Shorter terms may mean higher monthly payments but lower overall costs. Also, many lenders may require a down payment, usually ranging from 10% to 20% of the boat's purchase price. A larger down payment can lead to better loan terms and increased chances of loan approval.
Beyond the loan amount, you should consider other costs associated with boat ownership, such as insurance, maintenance, storage, and docking fees. These should be factored into your budget to ensure a realistic financial plan.
The boat loan application process involves submitting personal and financial information, including proof of income and credit history. Be prepared to provide details about the boat you intend to purchase, including its make, model, and purchase price. And, if your boat is in the $200K+ range, you'll likely need a boat inspection called a "marine survey”: similar to the inspection that's required on a home prior to qualifying for a mortgage, your lender will want to know that the vessel is seaworthy before approving the purchase.
The good news is that most of this can be done online. You've got an ocean of opportunities out there as you work to get the seafaring vessel of your dreams, and all it takes is a few clicks to find your financing.
What should you look for as you decide where to apply for a boat loan? Keep these things in mind:
- Loan structure. Is the boat loan set up specifically for boats (which is often more like a traditional auto loan), or is it a personal loan? Personal loans tend to have much higher interest rates. Also, be sure to note whether it's an unstructured (not secured by collateral) or structured (secured by collateral) loan: if you default on your payments, you will lose whatever you used to secure that loan (like the boat itself). Do you need to make a down payment?
- Rates and fees. How much will your monthly payments be? How long is the loan term? What fees are charged beyond interest (like origination fees, processing fees, and so on)?
- Available loan amount. How much does the lender let applicants borrow? Is it enough to cover the full amount for the boat you're hoping to buy? How long will it take to get the funds if you're approved?
- Reputation. What have other boat owners said about the lender? Were there any (unpleasant) surprises at any point of the application process or after the loan was funded? Has the Better Business Bureau given the lender a favorable rating?
Securing a boat loan requires careful consideration of your financial situation, the type of boat you want, and the terms offered by lenders. To help you on your quest, the experts at Top Consumer Reviews have evaluated and ranked some of today's most popular sources of boat loans. By navigating these waters thoughtfully, you can set sail on your maritime adventure with confidence and financial peace of mind.
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