Buying a Boat
Benefits of Buying Through Boat-Chek

• Provides piece of mind through impartial 3rd party reports
• Shows current photos of the actual condition of the boat
• Allows you to save search results to review later
• Provides you with an email when a new boat fills your criteria
• Allows you to save purchased reviews to compare to others
• Puts you directly in contact with the seller, broker, or surveyor
• Saves time and traveling expense by viewing reports online
• Better information and stronger competition equals realistic pricing

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Tips for Buying a Boat

Buying a boat or yacht can be a very confusing and difficult task, particularly for a first time boater. But buying a boat shouldn't be stressful, so we've provided you with a few tips to help make your dream of finding the perfect boat a reality.

The Big Picture
The first question you need to ask yourself is.Why have I decided to buy a boat? Is it to get away and spend some time alone? Is it to go fishing with family or friends? When you realize exactly what you'll be using the vessel for, it will be much easier to narrow down your search. Remember to consider which features will most benefit your purpose and you'll be more likely to enjoy the boat once it's yours!

Estimate Your Monthly Cost
How often will you be using your boat? Infrequent use or travel means that you will need to invest in a trailer. Alternatively you'll have to consider the cost to dock/store. Also realize that the larger the vessel, the more it will cost to operate and maintain. The general rule is to estimate double your boat's monthly payment. On the positive side, boats with galleys (cooking areas and sleeping quarters) qualify for a write of as second homes in most states and may allow you to buy up to 30% more boat.

Determine Your Destination
Where will you be using your boat? Are you traveling far offshore or staying in closer for shorter day trips? If you intend to travel by ocean or other rough waters, make sure to purchase accordingly. It is not recommended to traverse rough waters in anything smaller than 25' for comfortable cruising or overnight stays. Also pay attention to the hull design as deep V designs provide for less discomfort on choppy water. Sailboats tend to work with wave patterns, reducing these problems and making them a nice alternative. The best course of action is to always talk to fellow sailors before buying and use their experience to aid in your decision.

Get a Survey
This is a great idea on any boat you buy whether new or used. Finding problems before delivery can alleviate major headaches and warranty issues. The most important things to remember when searching for a surveyor is to find an impartial party and allow them adequate time and conditions to complete their job. Don't let the surveyor be rushed by the seller/broker, and always insist on sea trials being conducted on open water for at least 2 hours. Be prepared to reschedule if time or weather conditions don't permit for a thorough survey. This is a big decision and you should have all the facts.

After the survey, the surveyor will need a couple days to consider his/her findings and create the report. This also gives you time to think over your purchase. Don't let the seller/broker push you into making a decision, as the final results of the survey are not in until the report is written.

Diesel engines should have a full survey. Engines over 5 years old should also have either a compression test or their injectors pulled and the cylinders inspected with a boroscope. Although engine inspections are usually expensive, it will be well worth it if you avoid making a bad purchase.

The Agreement
Your purchase agreement should allow you to cancel the transaction if the vessel isn't satisfactory. You may also want to include the steps to follow if any defects are found. This can include the seller repairing the damage up to a maximum dollar amount, although you should also be wary of unsatisfactory attempts at repair. At the very least have it in writing that the company/individual doing repairs is agreed upon by all parties. The best option is to renegotiate the cost of the boat to allow you to make repairs, even if you aren't yet sure of the dollar amount of the damage. Remember to always get everything in writing, that way you have proof if someone goes back on their word.

Remember.

• Bigger isn't always better. In the long run, you'll be happier a better quality vessel even if it means a step down in size.
• Consider buying used to allow for more boat in your budget.
• Look beyond the flashy details. Cosmetic repairs are minimal in cost compared to the more serious problems they may be blinding you from.
• Calculate the total cost (depreciation, maintenance, interest, insurance, docking, fuel, repairs, etc.)
• Seriously consider gas over diesel for boats under 35', especially if they'll be used infrequently.
• After narrowing your search to a few, visit a marina to see what's holding up. Also talk to other boaters and get their recommendations.
• You can always consult your surveyor for the final decision. They'll be more than happy to give their recommendation and help you choose.
• Never make a decision before reviewing the final survey report!
• Boats are like anything else and do wear over time. Just because a problem hasn't presented itself yet, doesn't necessarily mean the vessel is better. This means that it may actually work out to your advantage to receive the cost reduction on a boat needing repairs. The alternative could mean paying full price on a boat that will just have the same problems a few months down the road.