Buy A Used Boat

Before considering buying a pre-owned boat there are a number of factors that need to be considered.

Where will you be using the boat? Will the boat be used on a lake, river or the ocean? Boats are often designed for specific types of waterways. Some boats can be used in different areas but no boat is perfect for all conditions.
How far, and how many people will be going with you on the boat? Obviously the needs of a family of six will be different than a couple or a single individual.

Where will you keep the boat? If it is a large boat you will need a slip. Are there slips available locally or a reasonable distance from where you live? In some areas of the country it is much harder to locate a desirable slip than it is a boat. Slips that are available may limit the size of the boat you are looking for.If the boat is on a trailer will you need to keep it in a storage facility, your yard, or garage? Often times homeowner associations will not allow a boat to be stored in the yard.

How much are you willing to spend? Enough said!

In what shape is the boat and how much are you capable of or willing to repair? Often a boat can be had for much less than it is worth but repairs will be necessary to get it in working order. Their is a wealth of information available now on the web to assist in repair work, but know your limitations.

Visit boating forums such as sailnet(for sailboats) and read the reviews and post question about boats that interest you. The information you receive will be straight forward and useful.

Review local classifieds. This will give you an idea not only on what type of boats are commonly used in your area but also provide price ranges. Review these often because good deals are snapped up quickly!
Visit local marinas and marine supply stores. This is a great opportunity to meet wih fellow boaters and potential sellers. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Marine supply stores will often have classifieds listed on a bulletin board and the employees often own boats themselves.

You may want to shop for new boats first so you can better compare. Local boat shops are an obvious first choice. Boat shows are great because there is a large variety of manufacturers and boats in one spot, and a it makes it easy to create your list of the critical or important traits of a boat you desire. You can then use this list to narrow down the large number of pre-owned boats available.

Once you find your boat, but before you buy - get a marine survey of the boat, which is a comprehensive examination of the boat. A marine survey is sort of like a home inspection. Often, structural defects or mechanical problems on boats that are old or have not been cared for properly, may be difficult to detect. Check with local marinas or look online at www.marinesurvey.org or www.nams-cms.org. There is no question that the expense will be money well spent. The cost is generally per linear foot and will vary by market. It is recommended that you get quotes from several surveyors. The surveyor should examine every part of the boat from the engine to the electrical system, itemize the equipment on board, and give the buyer a written statement of the condition as well as a list of recommendations. These might include minor (or major) repairs needed, equipment that needs service or replacement, and even an estimate of fair market value. A survey will give you the peace of mind knowing that nothing will need repair in the foreseeable future.