Financing a UTV is an excellent way to get a new vehicle without breaking your budget all at once. But before you do, be sure to check your credit score and create a budget so you know how much you can afford.
A higher credit score can open the door to better financing rates and terms. You should also attempt to offset any low scores with larger down payments – typically ranging from 10%-20%.
Pre-approval
Pre-approval is an effective way to determine what loan amounts, terms and interest rates you qualify for. This gives you a better idea of your borrowing capacity, making shopping and purchasing a vehicle much smoother.
Additionally, this helps determine how much money you can afford for a monthly payment and the duration of the loan. Once you know how much you can pay off each month, start creating a budget.
Start by creating a monthly take-home income and then subtract any expenses from it. This will give you an estimate of how much money is left for purchasing an UTV.
Once you know how much money you can spare, it’s time to consider making a down payment. This will lower your monthly payment and guarantee that you can purchase the vehicle of your dreams.
Down payment
If you’re thinking of purchasing a UTV, the down payment is usually between 10%-20% of the vehicle’s total cost. With that said, don’t feel pressured into taking out too large of an amount as there are plenty of financing options available for side-by-sides as well.
Saving money makes it easier to find a loan that fits both your budget and credit history. Furthermore, having enough down payment may secure low interest rates and long-term terms that make the repayment more manageable over time.
If you’re thinking of financing your UTV with a credit card, make sure you compare offers and look for zero-interest plans for the first year or two. Doing this can save a considerable amount of money in interest costs over time, allowing you to pay off your new UTV sooner.
Credit card
Credit card financing can be an attractive option for purchasing a new UTV. If you can locate a card with an attractive 0% promotional APR for a limited time, you may be able to secure enough of a credit line to cover the cost of your vehicle.
However, you must ensure you can pay the card off before the promotional rate expires. Otherwise, you could end up spending much more money in interest over the life of your loan than if you had chosen another type of lender.
Retailer financing is an alternative option that may be suitable if you need a convenient way to finance your UTV purchase. This option usually comes from the dealership where you purchase your machine.
Retailers offer a range of financing solutions, such as manufacturer incentives and subsidized loans. Furthermore, they may provide loan terms that are longer than what is typically found with other forms of financing.
Retailer financing
If your credit score is 700 or higher, financing an ATV through a powersports dealer may be possible. However, if your score falls below this mark, you’ll need to look elsewhere for financing options.
Personal loans offer an affordable way to purchase an ATV, with fixed rates and predictable payments over the life of the loan. Some even come without fees, making them perfect for those seeking low interest rates with a predictable repayment schedule.
Retailer financing for a UTV is another option available and ideal for those who feel secure using their ATV as collateral and have good credit. Be aware though, these rates may not be as competitive as dealer financing, so shop around to find the best rates possible.
Before you purchase an ATV, ensure you have a budget in place and factor the cost of ownership (accessories, safety gear, insurance and fuel) into your monthly expenses. Doing so will allow you to pay off the loan quicker and enjoy your new ATV sooner if you are an accountable borrower.
