Helping Boaters Finance With Confidence

Get to Know Sandy Gaulin & Jim Stiverson of OceanPoint Funding®.

Published: Friday, September 25, 2026 9:00 am

With decades of combined experience helping customers finance their dreams, Sandy Gaulin and Jim Stiverson understand that purchasing a boat is about more than securing a loan, it's about creating memories on the water with family and friends.

Sandy Gaulin (left) and Jim Siverson (right).

Whether you're purchasing your first boat, upgrading to a larger vessel, or refinancing an existing loan, the financing process can feel overwhelming. That's why our team is committed to making the experience straightforward, transparent, and personalized. At OceanPoint Funding, we believe informed buyers make confident buyers. 

Here are some of the questions we hear most often from boat shoppers today:

Should I get pre-approved before I start shopping?

Absolutely. A pre-approval helps you understand your budget before you begin your search and can strengthen your position when negotiating with a seller or dealer. It also allows you to focus on boats that fit comfortably within your financial goals.

What factors impact the financing options available to me?

Several factors are considered, including credit history, income, available assets, the age and type of vessel, loan amount, and down payment. Every situation is unique, which is why we take a personalized approach to helping customers find the right financing solution.

Is now a good time to buy a boat?

The best time to buy is when the vessel you're looking for meets your needs and fits your budget. Market conditions will always fluctuate, but being financially prepared and working with an experienced lender can help you take advantage of opportunities when they arise.

How long does the financing process take?

Timelines vary depending on the transaction, but gathering your financial documentation early and obtaining a pre-approval can significantly streamline the process. Our goal is always to help you get on the water as efficiently as possible.

Helpful Tips to Get Prepared:

1. Know Your Budget Before You Shop

Determine what monthly payment fits comfortably within your overall financial picture. Remember to account for expenses beyond the purchase price, including insurance, maintenance, storage, and fuel.

2. Organize Your Financial Documents

Having recent pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and identification readily available can help speed up the approval process.

3. Think Beyond Today's Needs

Consider how you plan to use the boat over the next several years. Whether you're cruising with family, fishing offshore, or entertaining friends, choosing the right vessel now can save time and expense later.

4. Work with a Trusted Lending Partner

Working with experienced partners like Sandy or Jim, who will look out for your best interests and can guide you through the process to help align the best financing options to meet your goals. 

5. Enjoy the Journey

Buying a boat is exciting! Taking the time to plan and understand financing options can make the entire experience smoother and more enjoyable.

At OceanPoint Funding, we're committed to helping customers navigate the financing process with confidence. Our team combines industry expertise with personalized service to help make boat ownership more accessible, so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying time on the water with family and friends.

Whether you’re purchasing your first boat or your next one, we’re here to help every step of the way. Learn more at oceanpointfunding.com

tags: boating, Boating 101, Financing, Ocean Point

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