Can I Get Financing for a Horse Float?

Owning a horse float is essential for many Australian horse owners, whether you're competing, breeding, or simply enjoying recreational riding. However, purchasing a horse float can be a significant financial investment, and not everyone has the funds available upfront. The good news is that financing options are available, allowing you to spread the cost of your float over time. While many people may think of approaching their bank for a loan, working with a finance broker could be the best way to secure the right financing with more competitive terms.

Financing Options for a Horse Float

In Australia, there are a variety of financing options available for purchasing a horse float. These options cater to different financial situations and offer various repayment terms. Whether you choose a personal loan, hire purchase agreement, or chattel mortgage, each option has its own set of benefits depending on your needs.

  1. Personal Loans: One of the most common methods of financing a horse float is through a personal loan. With a personal loan, you borrow a set amount from a lender, and repay it over a fixed period with interest. Once the loan is paid off, the horse float is yours outright. Personal loans are suitable for individuals who want to own their float outright without ongoing agreements. However, the interest rates can vary, and the terms may not always be as flexible as other options.
  2. Hire Purchase: A hire purchase agreement is another popular financing option. With hire purchase, you make regular payments towards the float, but you don't officially own it until the final payment is made. This option can offer lower monthly payments compared to a personal loan, but the total cost of the float can be higher due to the interest. Hire purchase is ideal if you prefer a predictable repayment plan.
  3. Chattel Mortgage: If you're purchasing a horse float for business purposes, a chattel mortgage may be the best option. This type of financing allows you to purchase the float while keeping it as an asset on your balance sheet. The lender holds a mortgage on the float until the loan is repaid in full, and businesses can often claim tax benefits. This financing plan is particularly beneficial for owners who need a float for commercial use.

Why Use a Broker for Horse Float Financing?

While it’s certainly possible to apply directly to banks or lenders for financing, working with a finance broker can significantly improve your chances of securing the best deal. Brokers have access to a wider range of lenders, including both traditional banks and non-bank lenders, which allows them to compare a variety of loan products to find the one that best suits your needs.

One of the biggest advantages of using a broker is their ability to tailor the search to your specific financial situation. Banks often have strict lending criteria, and if you don’t meet their requirements, you may face rejection or be offered a less-than-ideal loan. Brokers, on the other hand, work with a range of lenders who may have more flexible criteria and could offer better rates or terms that a bank might not be able to provide.

Additionally, brokers can help you navigate the often complex paperwork and loan application process. They can assist in gathering the necessary documentation, ensure that your application is complete, and even negotiate better rates on your behalf. This can save you both time and effort, as brokers manage the entire process from start to finish.

The Benefits of Using a Broker

Working with a broker can provide several key benefits when financing a horse float. For one, brokers are experienced in finding competitive interest rates and terms that match your budget and needs. Their extensive knowledge of the finance industry allows them to secure better deals, often leading to lower monthly repayments and more affordable options over the life of the loan.

Moreover, brokers have relationships with multiple lenders, including those that may not be accessible to the general public. As a result, they may be able to offer you exclusive deals or loan products that are not available through traditional bank channels. This access can provide you with more flexibility and better terms, ultimately making the financing of your horse float more affordable.

Conclusion

Yes, you can get financing for a horse float, and there are several options available to suit your specific needs. Whether you choose a personal loan, hire purchase, or chattel mortgage, each option comes with its own benefits. However, instead of applying directly with banks, consider working with a finance broker. Brokers have access to a broad range of lenders, better rates, and flexible terms that can be tailored to your financial situation. By using a broker, you can save time, avoid unnecessary stress, and ultimately secure the best financing deal for your horse float purchase.

 

DISCLAIMER

The information provided on this website is general in nature only and has been prepared without considering your financial needs, circumstances and objectives and should NOT be construed as financial, taxation or legal advice. For more information, get in touch with our experienced partner brokers today.

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All Your Questions Answered

What is a car loan and how does it work?

A car loan is a finance product where a lender provides funds for you to purchase a vehicle, which you repay over time with interest.

What’s the difference between secured and unsecured car loans?

Secured loans use the car as collateral, often leading to lower interest rates. Unsecured loans don’t, but usually have higher rates.

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Most car loans offer terms from 3 to 7 years. Find out what term suits you best.

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Interest is based on the loan amount, term, and rate. Fixed-rate loans have predictable repayments, while variable rates can change.

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Yes, many lenders accept private sellers. You’ll need to provide extra documents.

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Yes — many lenders offer better rates due to your stable income. Explore finance options for government employees.

Can I apply for a car loan while on probation?

Yes. Many workers are approved during probation.

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A score of 650+ is ideal, but lower scores may still be considered.

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Yes, especially if you're full-time with strong income.

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Yes, many government departments support novated leasing.

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Yes, it's still possible to get a car loan with no credit history.

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A broker can help restructure your application for better results.

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Use Equifax, Experian, or Illion for a free check.

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Yes, if your income supports both loans. A broker will assess your capacity.

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Typically: ID, payslips, and bank statements.

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Yes, if you’ve worked consistently for 6+ months.

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Yes. Consider a low-doc loan.

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Yes, when paired with PAYG income.

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Most lenders prefer $30,000+ annually, but this varies.

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Yes, especially if it’s government-backed.

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Yes, most lenders allow used cars under 10 years old.

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Absolutely

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Yes

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Yes. You may even qualify for green car loan discounts.

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Yes you can.

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Yes, many lenders allow this without penalty.

Can I pay off the loan early?

Yes — ask if there’s an early payout fee.

Is there a deposit required?

Not always.

What loan terms are available?

1 to 7 years is standard.

How long does approval take?

24–48 hours in most cases

Can I apply online?

Yes — most lenders and brokers accept online applications.

Is a broker better than going direct?

Often, yes. They can compare lenders for you.

Can I get pre-approved?

Yes — and it gives you better negotiating power at the dealership.

What happens after I apply?

Your documents are reviewed, and if approved, the lender issues funds to the seller.

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Yes, but learners may qualify with a co-applicant.

Can I apply with someone else?

Yes, joint applications are allowed.

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Yes — it can lower your repayments or get you a better rate.

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Yes, many lenders accept trade-ins toward the deposit.

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Yes, in some cases. Your job security is a major advantage.

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Yes, especially if you’re returning to work. Here’s how.

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Yes — just make sure the seller provides all required documents.

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Yes, but only through select lenders. Ask your broker first.

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Only if you apply to multiple lenders directly. Brokers help protect your score.

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