People all over the world enjoy the idea of using boats for recreational purposes, particularly if that boat actually belongs to them. While hiring a boat for an afternoon of fishing or a weekend of family fun and relaxation can be a great way to spend some free time, having your own used boat gives you the flexibility to get out onto the water whenever you like, without worrying about any additional fees.
This article will discuss how to buy a used boat and will teach you how to select a craft for the water that fits your needs, your budget, and your lifestyle.
Decide On Which Kind Of Boat You Want:
Learning how to buy a used boat means making some important decisions. For example, you'll need to figure out what kind of boat you want, and what you want that boat to be made out of. For instance, do you want an aluminum or fiberglass board, an outboard or inboard engine, and a powerful motor? How big do you want your motor to be, and do you want some space in the boat where your family can take refuge if the weather suddenly goes south? Is your boat going to be used for cruising, racing, hunting, or fishing?
Once you've made decisions about the kind of boat you're looking for, you'll be able to spend some time looking at the average prices for used boats that fall within that category that you have chosen. This will give you a better sense of the market.
Speak To The Owner Or Dealer:
The next step in figuring out how to buy a used boat, is contacting the dealer. When you phone a dealer, don't mention that you want the boat, just tell the person whom you are able to contact that you need to ask some questions, such as whether there's been any damage to the boat that may not have been advertised, and whether there may be any problems that you'll need to address before you can take it out on the water.
Sometimes, although many dealers can be trusted to give you straight answers on the condition of a used boat, you might have to visit the dock in person and see the boat for yourself. For example, ask if you can take the craft for a test drive to see how it handles, and make a careful note of any issues you recognize. If the owner seems nervous or unwilling to give answers, then this could be a sign that you need to shop elsewhere.
Remember to ask why the boat is being sold in the first place. Assuming that everything seems to be running fine, you might want to learn why the person is actually offering the boat for sale. For instance, if the person wants a better boat, then he might be overcharging to afford an upgrade. Remember that every issue or defect that you find during your inspection will work to your advantage when haggling on the price, so don't be afraid to bring up problems during a conversation, and remember to offer cash instead of a check as people often prefer to avoid the hassle of encashing a check.