How to go about evaluating a used boat?

[Berger1013]

We are looking to buy our first boat. Not looking for anything fancy, something to get us out exploring some of the great water we just recently moved to. I have been looking at skiffs, jon boats and recently just started looking at a bay boat. We aren't looking to spend a ton of money, trying to keep it in the $3k range. Like I said, nothing fancy.

Since I don't really know a lot about boats and motors, how do I go about finding out if everything is in order, working well, etc. I know I can hire a boat surveyor, but is that overkill on a cheaper boat like that? Any advice?

 

[redneck joe]

no it is not overkill, but even then you need to know what you are looking for.



http://forums.iboats.com/forum/gene...eeding-help-buying-a-boat-a-buyer-s-checklist



congrats on the new truck.


what are your

1. people count
2. where you will boat
3. what you want to do in said boat
4. day/overnight trips

etc

 

[ihearth2o]

First question you should ask is do you have the title, both for boat and trailer? If the answer is NO to either, that's a deal breaker, especially in states that require trailer registration.

Run a search on how to buy a used boat and you'll get plenty of hits.

Happy shopping!

 

[gm280]

Are you simply looking for a run about type boat, a skiing boat or a fishing type boat. Those are things YOU need to determine before searching. And a boat in that price range will really need to be checked out very carefully because that will either buy you one very small setup in fair condition, or a larger type boat in need of a lot of work to make it water ready... So sit down and ask yourselves what you want to do with the boat and write those options down. And then determine what you are capable of doing with any type boat you should buy. Maintenance IS very important for any boat. And if you are capable of doing those things yourself, it can get cheaper. But if you have to take it to a marina for any type work, you have to factor in those costs. And where will you park this boat when not using it? Sitting in the sun and weather is very hard on a boat and will cause more upkeep. So those are some things to think about... JMHO!

 

[southkogs]

Welcome aboard Berger.

Joe's got a great starting cache of questions for you up top - answer those, otherwise you'll hear all about OUR favorite boats

Where I am $3k would be on the lower end of getting something (nearly anything besides a fishing boat) lake ready. If you can stretch up about $1k, you may have a wider range of options. Also - make sure you consider cost of ownership (most people don't). All boats require maintenance, but depending on how you store it, fix it, clean it, maintain it, etc., etc. some boats will cost more. I'm assuming you're looking for something trailerable, which helps keep the cost down. But you do have to store it and maintain it, which has some annual cost involved.

Got anything that's caught your attention?

 

[redneck joe]

oh and remember it is asking price. that said, you picked a bad time of year to start looking...