Have you been toying with the idea of buying a boat?
You might have enjoyed going out in the sea as a kid and you’d like to relive the memories. Buying a boat is always going to be an exciting experience.
You don’t know what to expect and there will always be something to surprise you. There are some basic tips that will come in handy when buying a boat and we’re going to highlight some of them.
Check out some Tips For Buying a Boat
Type of Boat to Buy
This will be the first consideration to have in mind before you go out shopping for a boat. You’ll need to consider when and how you will be using the boat.
All boats are specialized and are designed with a specific purpose in mind. The earlier you realize this, the better it will be for you when looking for the ideal boat.
If you’d like to experience different kinds of waters, it will make sense to look for something that will be easy to put on a trailer.
Even when you’ve decided on the type of boat that you’d like to buy, you will still have to make the decision on the individual specifications because each boat will not be the same.
New or Used
This is one of the challenging dilemmas you’ll have to face if you intend to buy a boat. When you do research, you’ll discover that there are tons of used boats at lower prices compared to new ones.
Modern boats are made from fiberglass and aluminum. This means that they last longer compared to wooden does. You can get used boats that are still in excellent condition.
When you buy a used boat, you get to save a lot on upfront costs. There will be a lot of variables that determine the success of such a purchase. It is similar to buying a used car.
Make sure you’re doing due diligence before making the purchase.
Shopping for the Boat
Once you’ve decided that you’ll be buying the boat, the best place you can start your search is on the internet. The good thing about the internet is that it can be used to compare models and prices.
There will be video tours so that you know what exactly you will be getting. It will be easy to narrow down to a few boats. It is only then can you organize to go see the boats in person.
Inspecting the Boat
You will need to make sure that the boat is equipped with all the necessary accessories. There are some things that you could overlook like an anchor rope. There are brands like Ezty which are known for quality.
The thoroughness of the inspection will depend on a couple of factors. If it is a big purchase, you’ll not want to leave any stone unturned. You can seek the help of a professional so that you’re not getting a lemon deal.
The first phase of the inspection will be a walk around. You want to make sure that everything is in order. Inspect any physical signs of damage if it is a used boat.
The next step will be to go for a sea trial to inspect how the boat performs. There is a big difference between a normal boat ride and a sea trial.
The boat should be hauled after the sea trial. Make sure that you’re not buying it straight away. Consider hiring a surveyor to help with the inspection.
What is Included in the Purchase
What is ultimately included will not only depend on the type of boat you buy bit also the type of deal that you agree on. A reputable seller will provide a detailed equipment list that comes with the purchase like Yacht Controller, GPS navigation system, etc.
There is always the option of going for the whole package or choosing to shop for the amenities by yourself. If it is the first time that you’re buying the boat, you can go for the whole package.
Closing the Deal
Buying a boat is just like any other purchase. You’re allowed to ask for a discount. You can never know if you’ll get one when you don’t ask. The purchasing decision can be an emotional one.
That is why it is usually advisable to let reason prevail at all times. Don’t buy the boat simply because it is big and shiny. There is more than meets the eye and it will be impossible to know if there is no due diligence.
Let someone that is familiar with the process help you out so that you’re not making the wrong decisions.
