Buying a previously-loved boat can feel like a bit of a gamble, as you wonder how well the boat’s owner has maintained the bargain boat of your dreams. But whether you’re looking for coastal cruising, inland boating, quiet fishing or family fun, buying second hand can be a good investment if you know what to look for.

Many engines are used for less than half the year, and a lot of owners take pride in caring for their boat, both inside and out, so it’s entirely possible to find a second hand boat for sale with plenty of life left in her. Just watch out for these 5 common blunders and your boat search should be plain sailing.

1) You spend more time browsing adverts than actually viewing boats

The boating and sailing press, your local newspaper, marina noticeboards and numerous websites will all give you a good picture of what’s out there and how things are priced in the current second hand market. However, a broker that is part of an international network can save you hours of time randomly searching for the boat that suits you. How? With dedicated search technology that searches our global network.

2) You’re buying from a private seller

If this is a friend of a friend and you have a gut feeling that the sale is going to go well, then by all means trust your instincts. But in most cases you’re going to want some kind of reassurance that the price is a reasonable one, and that the boat ‘does what it says on the tin’. What if you need help with something after the sale? Are there any guarantees? Will you be able to contact the vendor at a later date? Do they have any paperwork that proves they own the vessel? Using a broker can set your mind at rest.

3) You’re driving long distances every weekend for viewings

How often have you gone to view a boat for sale and found that it’s nothing like you imagined? The basic specification in the advert didn’t really display every part of the boat; ‘warts and all’. This can often result in a wasted journey. Because we display up to 80 photos of each boat for sale we are confident that you know what you are getting in to before committing to making that journey.

4) You’ve got no-one to talk to

(Cue violins) It’s a lonely old life if there’s no one to ask but the boat vendor himself. A good broker can act as a ‘middle man’ so you can discuss what length of boat is right for you and your budget, how much engine power is really necessary, and what model would suit your family? Let our broker be your guide; no question is too silly, so go ahead and ask! We want you to find the right boat – remember if we sell you one you’re not happy with you won’t recommend us to your friends, so we’re on your side, and not just in it to make a sale.

5) You don’t know if the price is right

You’ve found the boat, you love it, but you’re not sure if the price is a rip-off. If only you knew what similar boats of the same make, model and age were selling for in the second hand market right now. See point 4 and ask your broker buddy!

We do love to talk about boats, so get in touch if you don’t immediately see what you’re looking for on our site.

Peggy

Image credit: Silverton 45 Convertible for sale

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