How is my boat loan interest rate offer worked out?

Lenders work out boat loan interest rate offers based on their lending rates, type of loan, collateral and the financials and credit score of the applicant. Buyers may see rates advertised by lenders but when they submit their application or request a quote, the rate they are offered is different from what they expected. Understanding how lenders determine individual loan and rate offers may assist buyers to better plan buying a boat with finance.

While the criteria and computations can be complex, there are some basic guidelines that are easy to follow and may be helpful in ensuring individual buyer expectations better meet outcomes.

How Lenders Work out Boat Loan Interest Rate Offers

Rates represent risk. When approving credit, a lender is establishing the risk that the individual will repay the loan. Lenders advertise their best rate on different credit products as a guide only. The advertised rate will typically be for loans on new goods and for applicants with a good credit profile.

The consumer credit market is extensive, and buyers will find variations in rates advertised across the market. These variations arise because lenders set their own rates. Rates are based on the lender’s funding costs and the cash rate as set by the Reserve Bank. Rates will vary with the different types of credit products offered by a lender.

Different credit products represent different risk factors for lenders. For example, a secured loan which is backed by the asset being financed presents a lower risk than an unsecured loan where no collateral is provided. Loan products in different markets can vary. For example, rates for car finance may differ from home mortgage and from marine finance rates. This can be due to the lender’s interest in funding that sector and other factors.

Lenders will change their rates according to forecasts from their own analysts. They may change rates when the RBA announces an increase or a cut to the cash rate, or they may not.

Application Details that Determine Boat Loan Interest Rate

Lenders look closely at all the details in finance applications as part of the application assessment process. The personal financials are assessed. This includes the income, assets, debts and other liabilities. Credit card limits are seen as a potential debt. Before applying for finance, buyers may consider how they can reduce their debt levels to better improve their balance sheet.

Credit scores, reports and profiles are reviewed. Credit Reporting Agencies compile credit reports on individuals which are available for lenders to review. These reports include current loans, the history of late payments and loan defaults, accounts held, and even details of loan applications. From this information a credit score is derived using a formula. Good credit scores pose a lower risk of loan default than poor to bad scores. The score is a major determinant for the rate offer made to a loan applicant.

Before applying for a boat loan, individuals can obtain a copy of their credit report following the steps as provided at Moneysmart. Knowing the credit score may provide insights into what to expect as a rate offer when the loan application is submitted.

Boat Loan Interest Rate - Different Credit Products

The type of credit product is important to interest rates. The general differentiation is between a secured and an unsecured loan. A secured loan uses the vessel being financed as the collateral for the funding. The lender holds an interest in the vessel until the loan is finalised. Where the borrower defaults – fails to meet the repayments, the lender has the right to repossess the vessel. The lender then sells the vessel to recoup the outstanding monies.

Having collateral for a loan provides lenders with an assurance that funds loaned will be recovered and as such, secured credit products attract their best rates. Lenders require all goods under finance to be insured. Providing an additional level of protection for lenders that the funds will be recovered.

Unsecured credit does not require collateral to be provided. Without collateral, the risk is higher for lenders and the rates offered are higher.

Loan Specifics that Determine Boat Loan Interest Rate

The amount of the loan is considered by lenders when preparing rate offers. Specifically, they are looking at the percentage of the loan compared with the value or price of the boat. A higher loan to value ratio can present a higher risk and attract higher rates.

Buyers may improve their prospects of being offered a better rate by making a larger downpayment on their vessel and therefore requiring a small loan amount.

Securing the Best Boat Loan Interest Rate Offer

So how can buyers ensure they are securing their best rate? Use a broker to find the most suitable lender and best rates in the market. Address personal financials. Ensure the boat is suitable collateral for a Secured Boat Loan and lower rates than an Unsecured Personal Loan. Consider the deposit to reduce the loan and attract a lower rate. Avoid making multiple loan applications as this may have a negative effect on the credit score.

To secure your best boat loan interest rate, connect with Jade Boat Loans 1300 000 003

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION AND SPECIFIC DETAILS CONTAINED IN THE CONTENT OF THIS ARTICLE HAVE BEEN PREPARED AND ARE PRESENTED PURELY AS GENERAL INFORMATION AND NOT INTENDED AS THE ONLY SOURCE OF FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR BOAT BUYERS AND LOAN BORROWERS. FOR THOSE THAT CONSIDER THEY REQUIRE SPECIFIC ADVICE, THEY SHOULD CONSULT WITH A FINANCIAL ADVISOR. LIABILITY IS NOT ACCEPTED IN REGARD TO ERRORS AND MISPRESENTED DATA AND DETAILS HEREIN.