Useful information for buyers and sellers:

Buying a Boat.

1. The first step in purchasing a new boat should be to develop some form of checklist and make an appointment with the seller so you can examine the boat.

If there is inventory included with the boat, check to sure it is on board
Is the boat easy to board?
Thoroughly examine the boat inside and out for cracks, loose fittings, electronic equipment, etc. and make notes that will help you with your decision.
Examine the cushions, any teak on the boat, and the general interior of the boat.
You know what condition you want the boat to be in. What will it cost to put the boat in that condition?
Would you save money if you continued to search and find this particular boat in better shape?

2. Questions you need to ask the current owner:

What is reason for selling the boat?
Do you know of any major repairs or problems needed on the boat?
Has the boat been used in salt or fresh water?
How many hours are there on the boat and motor?
Has the trailer been serviced lately?
Did you have a yearly maintenance plan on the motor for both spring and winter?
How long have you had the boat for sale?

3. How to make the deal with the owner:

More than likely you know the seller’s or dealer’s asking price.
Make a reasonable counter offer based on what you have observed about the boat.
Ask about the payment method. Whether it will be cash, certified check or personal check.
It would be wise to consult with your bank or credit union if financing will be used to purchase the boat. Get ideas from them of their financing requirements for this make and model boat.
Don’t forget about the insurance required to insure the boat against theft or damage. You should shop around and find the most sensible and affordable premium you can find. There are insurance companies that cater to boaters. You should be able to find some of those companies listed here on www.coastalmariner.com.
Be forewarned that most insurance companies will require a survey on the boat.

4. Test drive the boat (after making an offer and a 5% deposit given)

How well can you see while under way? Does anything impede your vision while at the helm?
Do you have any problem seeing all the gauges and electronics?
Is the throttle easy to reach and responsive? Let the motor idle while in neutral. Does it run smoothly?
Test the boat in various conditions. Run boat at idle speed, moderate speed and full throttle. Does it handle well when turning? Test trim and trim tabs.

5. Trailering your boat

Does the boat come with a trailer? Test drive the trailer and look for ease of handling and safety.
Thoroughly examine the trailer. Look for any signs of rust and the extent of it.
If the trailer is equipped with trailer brakes, test these to make sure they work.

6. Look for and hire a qualified surveyor. This may cost a little extra but will pay off in the long run.

You should make arrangements to have the boat out of the water prior to the surveyor inspecting the boat.
Depending on the size of the boat you should check to see what it would cost to remove the boat from the water if not trailer able.
You should make a visual inspection of the boat bottom.
Is there any blistering and to what extent is it?
If necessary, what will the repairs end of costing?
Is the boat worth putting that much money into?

7. After the survey ask yourself these questions:

Is the boat in terrible condition and not worth what you offered? If so, ask for and get your deposit back.
There are some minor repairs required, is the boat worth the time and extra money? If the answer is yes, then try to renegotiate the price based on what the repairs will cost.
Can this really be my dream boat I have waited so long to acquire? If the answer is yes, write the check and go have yourself some fun!

The most important thing is to do your homework prior to making a purchase of any boat. Research web sites that may deal with the boat you are interested in. Go to websites that have forums and describe the boat you are considering purchasing and post your question. Most people that frequent these sites are more than glad to give you their opinions on the boat. Here at the coastalmariner.com feel free to give any of our dealers a call to discuss a particular boat. Happy Boating!