The skid steer is the first machine for most contractors and the busiest machine for the rest. Small-ticket programs approve these on a one-page application, often the same day, and the attachments ride along.
What we finance
A high-flow CTL with a forestry mulcher is a $150K package. A used S650 with a bucket and forks is $30K. Both get financed, just through different programs.
Why these close fast
Under roughly $150K, most lenders decide on the application alone: no tax returns, no financials, just the one-page app, the quote, and a soft credit look. That is why a skid steer can be approved Tuesday and delivered Thursday.
- Dealer purchases fund directly to the dealer, usually next day after signing.
- Used and private party work with a bill of sale, serial verification, and photos. Some programs add a quick inspection.
- Attachment-only deals from $5K to $10K and up are possible when you already own the machine.
First machine? Read this
Start-ups get approved on skid steers more than on any other equipment, because the ticket is small and the machine is easy to resell. What helps: a year or more of experience in the trade, a personal credit score in the 600s or better, a 10 to 20 percent down payment, and any work already lined up. What hurts: recent late payments, open collections, and a deal that is bigger than the business can support. Buy the machine that pays for itself in the first season and upgrade on the second deal.
Who buys them through us
Landscapers and hardscapers, tree services, snow contractors, concrete and flatwork crews, fencing and deck builders, small excavation outfits, property managers, farms, and equipment rental start-ups.
What a payment can look like
Rough ranges so you can budget before you call a dealer.
| Amount financed | Term | Strong credit | Average credit | Challenged or start-up |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $28,000 | 36 mo | $889/mo | $942/mo | $1,011/mo |
| $48,000 | 48 mo | $1,192/mo | $1,285/mo | $1,407/mo |
| $72,000 | 60 mo | $1,491/mo | $1,635/mo | $1,824/mo |
| $110,000 | 60 mo | $2,278/mo | $2,497/mo | $2,787/mo |
Illustrative estimates only, not offers or quotes. Real payments depend on the funding program, credit, time in business, down payment, equipment age, and documentation fees. Seeing your actual options starts with a soft credit inquiry. Run your own numbers in the payment calculator.
Questions we get
What credit score do I need for a skid steer?
Around 640 and up gets app-only approvals with most programs. Below that we go to story-credit lenders who look at bank statements and time in trade. Every score gets a look; no hard pull until you accept an offer.
Can I finance just the attachments?
Yes, from a few thousand dollars up. Mulchers, grapples, augers, and snow equipment are common attachment-only deals.
Is a used skid steer harder to finance?
No. Used is most of what we see. We need the serial number, hour meter, a few photos, and the seller invoice or bill of sale.
How much down for a start-up?
Usually 10 to 20 percent, or first and last payment up front. Strong personal credit or a co-signer can bring that down.
