How to buy a non-local boat

[shaun77]

I have been looking for several months at different model boats and really have not found anything in my area that I like. I have found several boats though all over the state and one in particular about 4 hours away. I would like to take a look at it but it is a brokerage boat and would want the I/O looked at also. What is the best way to do this when the boats across the state. Should negotiations be done before I even make the trip out? Any advice for dealing with brokerage boats would also help.

 

[LippCJ7]

Re: How to buy a non-local boat

First thought that comes to mind is post the ad and tell us where it is, good chance someone here will go look at it and take pictures of the boat and any concerns for the cost of some gas money or a case of Beer even, I have done it and I know others that have as well, otherwise if your serious about the boat the best way is to arrange a Marine Survey, they will tell you of any concerns, but they cost a little more then a case of Beer.

Brokerage boats can be difficult to deal with, they sometimes do not know the history of the boat and they are getting a percentage of the sale so keep that in mind. They also have little to offer in the way of a Warranty to back the used boat up so they have even less leverage, you have the money they have a boat for sale, you are in charge not them.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: How to buy a non-local boat

Why would you even think about negotiating before you see the boat. If it interests you, then go look -- then negotiate. As for a marine survey, DO NOT use one the broker recommends as most certainly they scratch each others back to ensure the sale is made. To see how this works, all you need to do is watch Holmes on Homes on sunday evening. People regularaly buy houses based on a inspection done by a dude that has one thing in mind, a kick back by the seller and closing a sale. By all means insist on an on-water test. Observe each and every instrument to ensure each one reads normal following a 15 minute wide open throttle run. If the broker objects, walk away. That would be the only negotiation I would do over the phone and it immediately saves you a trip.

 

[shaun77]

Re: How to buy a non-local boat

Thanks Lipp, great idea.

Silvertip, a negotiation is NOT a buyers order. I'm trying to avoid wasting 8 hrs of driving and gas. Why even look if a price is not agreed upon. Also, from the research I've done on this forum, negotiations are typically done before a sea trial and survey to weed out serious buyers from joy riders. THEN, if all is good a deal is made. Have I been mislead?

 

[Sunsetrider]

Re: How to buy a non-local boat

Yes Shaun, you are partially right. For me, as a seller, you will never know my bottom line without making a written offer with limited and well-defined "outs." Your offering price depends on much more than the result of the survey. I don't know how you can know your bottom line without a personal inspection. That 8-hour drive is part of the price of getting a used boat at a great price.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: How to buy a non-local boat

as always, define "boat." 14' jon? 19' 15 year old bow rider? 30' cruiser?

Figure your time and gas for the 8 hour round trip x 2 and hire someone local to look at it for you, after getting all details from the seller.