With the way the economy has turned in the past year, finding used boat financing can be difficult.
Lenders are becoming extremely strict about qualification standards.
Repossessions are on the rise, as well, since more and more people are not able to make their monthly payments.
  However, there is hope.
Here are three ways to get more boat for the dollar: #1 Avoid the Dealers No matter what kind of "sale" is proclaimed on a sign, the dealers are in business to make money.
This also includes their stock of used boats.
Many times, these boats are taken as a trade-in.
The value given for the boat is sometimes more than it is actually worth.
The dealers make their money back by selling the used boat at a higher markup.
  #2 Government Auctions This is actually a much easier way to get a used boat.
Many of the boats sold at a government auction start out with a bid of $100.
Since these auctions are not advertised much, many people aren't even aware of them.
This means there are fewer people bidding on the units and, ultimately, lower winning bids.
  You can find these auctions online.
There are sites that provide all the necessary information, such as dates, times, locations, and even what will be sold.
Some will even notify you when new auction information becomes available.
It's a very simply way to save money on a boat, without having to go through all the qualifying for used boat financing.
#3 Buy from Someone You Know While many people are hesitant to buy from family or friends, this can really end up saving you money.
Most won't charge interest, so you end up paying a lot less than through a bank or other financial institution.
If you must use a bank, shop around and find the lowest interest rate.
 Even just a half a percentage point can really save you a lot in the long run.
If you are ready to hit the water, without taking a hit with used boat financing, then take the above tips to heart.
You'll be off for a long weekend at the lake before you know it!