Need Advice on boat purchase

[Leigh]

Hey,<br /><br />Looking for 17-20 foot trailerable boat to be used<br />for coastal fishing and family boating. Thinking<br />center console. Question: Would it be better to buy a older model top tier boat (Grady White, Whaler) or a mid to low tier newer model. My budget is 10k. Also, what things should I watch out for when inspecting older boats?<br />Thanks!

 

[Capt. Bob]

Re: Need Advice on boat purchase

Also, what things should I watch out for when inspecting older boats?<br />

If ya gotta ask...ya gotta learn. <br /><br />Sincerely, you must learn and one of the best places to use for reference is David Pascoe's site. He is a respected marine surveyor and has written 150 articles that he shares for free online. This is one of the top sites on the net for information about what to look for when buying a used boat as well as many other interesting subjects. <br />Hope this helps with that part of your questions!

 

[snapperbait]

Re: Need Advice on boat purchase

Eye tooth: I would go with the older model sipmly for the resale value... Gradys & Whalers tend to hold their value because they are better products.. Spend a little $$$ & have the boat surveyed...Might save you $$$ in the future.. Go slow and use common sense.. Who knows? In a few years you might want to upgrade or you might find you don't enjoy boating so find something that holds it's resale value... Good luck & happy hunting...

 

[suzukidave]

Re: Need Advice on boat purchase

get a used better quality boat if you can get one that isn't junk and get an outboard model if you can because its much cheaper to repower if you eventually have to. Have it checked out carefully if you don't know how yourself, and don't panic at the deficiencies.