How Does Aviation & Marine Finance Work?

Aviation and marine finance works similarly to other asset finance products. You spread the cost of the aircraft or vessel over an agreed period, typically making fixed monthly payments. The asset is usually used as security for the loan, which can help secure more competitive rates.

As a credit broker, not a lender, Balanced Funding Solutions searches across our panel of UK lenders to find the most competitive deal for your situation. We handle the paperwork and lender negotiations, so you can focus on finding the right vehicle.

“Aviation and marine finance is a niche area, but that does not mean it has to be complicated. The key is working with lenders who understand these assets. A light aircraft or a well-maintained yacht can hold its value exceptionally well, which works in the buyer’s favour when it comes to finance terms.”
John Pemberton
John Pemberton
Director, Balanced Funding Solutions • 20+ years in financial services

Types of Aviation & Marine Finance

The right finance product depends on the type and value of the asset, how you plan to use it, and whether you want to own it outright or keep your options open.

Quick Comparison

A side-by-side look at how the main car finance types compare on the factors that matter most.

FeatureHPPCPLeasingLoan
Own the car?Yes, at end of termOptional (balloon payment)NoYes, immediately
Deposit required?Usually (can be £0)UsuallyInitial rentalNo
Monthly paymentsHigherLowerLowestVaries
Mileage limits?NoYesYesNo
Can sell early?With settlement figureWith settlement figureNoYes, freely
Best forKeeping your car long-termChanging cars every 2–4 yearsLowest monthly costOutright ownership & flexibility

Hire Purchase (HP)

Own the car?Yes, at end
Deposit?Usually (can be £0)
PaymentsHigher
Mileage limits?No
Best forLong-term ownership

PCP

Own the car?Optional (balloon)
Deposit?Usually
PaymentsLower
Mileage limits?Yes
Best forChanging every 2–4 yrs

Leasing (PCH)

Own the car?No
Deposit?Initial rental
PaymentsLowest
Mileage limits?Yes
Best forLowest monthly cost

Personal Loan

Own the car?Yes, immediately
Deposit?No
PaymentsVaries
Mileage limits?No
Best forFull ownership & flexibility

Who Can Apply?

Car finance is available to a wide range of applicants. While each lender has its own criteria, the general requirements are:

  • Aged 18 or over
  • UK resident with at least three years of address history
  • Holding a valid UK driving licence (for vehicle finance)
  • Regular income — employed, self-employed, or retired
  • Not currently bankrupt or in an active IVA (some specialist lenders may consider)

If you have been declined elsewhere or have a less-than-perfect credit history, it is still worth speaking to us. Our panel includes lenders who specialise in non-standard credit applications.

“We are always upfront about what is and is not possible. If we cannot find a deal that works in a customer’s favour, we will tell them. We would rather someone came back to us in six months with a stronger position than take on finance that stretches them too thin.”
John Pemberton
John Pemberton
Director, Balanced Funding Solutions
The Process

How It Works

Applying for car finance through Balanced Funding Solutions is straightforward. Here is what to expect at each stage.

1

Get in Touch

Tell us how much you need and what the finance is for. Online form, phone, or email.

2

We Search

We compare options across our lender panel for your budget and credit profile.

3

Your Options

Full transparency on rates, terms, and fees — no obligation to proceed.

4

Completion

We handle the paperwork. Funds typically released within 24–48 hours.

Aviation & Marine Finance Calculator

Get an estimate of your monthly payments. Adjust the figures to match your budget.

£
£
Estimated Monthly Payment
£323
per month
Amount financed£13,500
Total repayable£15,504
Total interest£2,004
Get a Quote

For illustration purposes only. This calculator provides an estimate based on the figures you enter. Your actual rate will depend on your individual circumstances, credit profile, and the lender’s criteria. Balanced Funding Solutions is a credit broker, not a lender.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

The main types of car finance in the UK are hire purchase (HP), personal contract purchase (PCP), personal contract hire (leasing), and personal loans. Each has different ownership structures, deposit requirements, and end-of-term options. A broker can help you understand which is most suitable for your circumstances.

Yes. Because we work with a wide panel of lenders, including those who specialise in non-standard credit, we can often find options for customers who have been declined elsewhere. Rates may be higher than for customers with strong credit profiles, but we will always be transparent about costs before you commit.

In many cases we can secure a decision in principle within a few hours of receiving your application. Once you have found your vehicle and the lender has completed final checks, funds can typically be released within 24 to 48 hours.

Not always. Some lenders offer zero-deposit finance, particularly on hire purchase agreements. Putting down a deposit can reduce your monthly payments and may improve the rate offered by the lender, but it is not a requirement on every product.

An initial enquiry with us does not affect your credit score. When we submit a formal application to a lender, a credit search will be recorded on your file, which is standard practice for any form of borrowing.

Yes. We arrange finance for both new and used vehicles. Most of our lenders will consider vehicles up to a certain age and mileage, and we can advise on what is available based on the specific vehicle you are looking at.
John Pemberton, Director of Balanced Funding Solutions
Written by John Pemberton
Director, Balanced Funding Solutions • Former Lloyds Banking Group • 20+ years in financial services

John founded Balanced Funding Solutions in 2009 after leaving Lloyds Banking Group. He has spent over two decades in the vehicle and asset finance industry and holds direct relationships with lenders across the UK motor trade. He specialises in finding tailored solutions for both personal and business customers. All content on this page has been reviewed for accuracy and reflects John’s professional experience.

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Reviewed by: John Pemberton, Director

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