Do you want to get into golf, but feel unsure about whether you can get golf clubs with an imperfect credit history? You may have options.
In this guide, we’ll introduce how rent-to-own can be an option for golf clubs, check out the types of clubs you can snag, and spotlight a few notable brands. We’ll also share options for finding out where you may be able to rent-to-own a set of golf clubs near you.
Golf equipment sales have recently surged, reaching record highs for major brands. Simultaneously, there seems to be significant interest in golf across the U.S., with millions of people looking to get into the game.
For newcomers, especially those with lower credit scores, the prospect of paying for equipment upfront, all at once might seem daunting. However, rent-to-own payment options offer a solution, allowing individuals to start playing without the need to make a large upfront payment. This alternative payment method can make it easier to enter the sport without having to pay for all the clubs and other golf equipment, all at once.
Rent-to-own is a way to access golf clubs without having to pay in-full, up-front. If approved for a rent-to-own option, you may be able to get those fairway woods you wanted or maybe that putter you’ve had your eye on, depending upon who you sign a rent-to-own agreement with. Looking for a place to rent-to-own? Get started* today by searching for where you’d like to shop.
*NOTE: Payment solutions vary based on the merchant and will be indicated at the beginning of the application process with American First Finance. Be sure to confirm that the merchant you select offers the lease, loan, or alternative payment solution you intend to apply for.
Ultimately, what you can get will depend on where you apply and are approved. We’ve outlined some common clubs below that may be available today in the national rent-to-own marketplace.
You’ll know them by their big heads—the club equivalent of a van’s extended cab, which often hollows from front to back. Fitted with long shafts for max swing speed, woods are for teeing grounds or when you need some yards to be covered.
Often coined as “blades”—these clubs usually range from 3-iron to 9-iron or pitching wedge. Their dense, solid heads equipped with angled faces and grooves mean more spin control and loft, essential traits for shots off fairways or tee shots in shorter holes.
Outfitted with club head designs that marry features from several club types, these clubs (also known as utility or rescue clubs) can be helpful for golfers daunted by the long irons. Introducing ease of use akin to fairway woods but with trajectory control from the iron club benefits results in clubs that adapt smoothly to multiple on-course scenarios.
This category is essentially a sub-set of irons but features distinctly different club heads morphed into severely angled faces. This type includes pitching wedges, gap wedges, sand wedges, and lob wedges—each serving unique roles for shorter approach shots towards greens, chips, and pitches around greens.
Putters come in a variety of shapes and sizes for comfort levels. Are you looking for traditional blades with slender silhouettes? Do you prefer mallets? Either one you choose offers different benefits for your golf game.
Golfers with less-than-perfect credit scores may face barriers when trying to get the dream golf clubs they really want through traditional means. And in cases where one has a credit score below 580, acquiring new gear may look like an uphill battle.
However, a rent-to-own option could be worth considering. If approved, it makes getting clubs more realistic – without having to pay all at once. Of course, the options available will vary based on the merchant.
Rent-to-own may be a feasible option for getting access to golf clubs, even if you have had credit hiccups in your financial past. If approved, you can make monthly payments based on your payment frequency over a period of time, and may be able to possess the brands or clubs you’re looking for.
If you’d like to find rent-to-own options for golf clubs, our store locator can help you find stores* near you.
*NOTE: Payment solutions vary based on the merchant and will be indicated at the beginning of the application process with American First Finance. Be sure to confirm that the merchant you select offers the lease, loan, or alternative payment solution you intend to apply for.
Here are some common questions about rent-to-own golf clubs.
A: Credit score isn’t generally the only consideration during a rent-to-own application. If you apply with American First Finance, your credit may be checked, although bad credit won’t necessarily lead to a denial.
A: Rent-to-own is a flexible payment method that allows people with bad credit or no credit scores to access quality products without purchasing and paying upfront in full. A rent-to-own payment solution may be an option for those with a challenged credit history who want to access products they need or want.
A: There are three options to obtain ownership on your lease-to-own account, when renting to own golf clubs through American First Finance.
1. You may take advantage of the Early Buyout Option**; if approved, details would be in your agreement.
2. You also have an option to own the merchandise after the Early Buyout Option period has passed and before the end of your agreement by using the Early Purchase Option.
As a note, paying through the Early Buyout Option or the Early Purchase Option allows you to save money on leasing fees and to own the merchandise earlier.
3. You obtain ownership of the merchandise once you make all the scheduled payments to the end of your agreement term. You do not have to pay off early.
A: There are many options when looking for rent-to-own golf clubs. We work with thousands of merchants across the U.S. To apply, start by finding a store near you.*
*NOTE: Payment solutions vary based on the merchant and will be indicated at the beginning of the application process with American First Finance. Be sure to confirm that the merchant you select offers the lease, loan, or alternative payment solution you intend to apply for.
A: You can apply for rent-to-own golf club options on our website. Not everyone will be approved, but having bad credit doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be denied. Your credit may be checked, but having no or a low credit score doesn’t necessarily disqualify you. First, select your preferred store near you*, and you can apply directly in minutes.
*NOTE: Payment solutions vary based on the merchant and will be indicated at the beginning of the application process with American First Finance. Be sure to confirm that the merchant you select offers the lease, loan, or alternative payment solution you intend to apply for.
**You will save money if you pay the discounted amount during the Early Buyout Option (EBO) period. You must make payments larger than your regularly scheduled payments by the EBO expiration date. You can make additional payments through our customer portal or by contacting our customer service team.