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Tips On Buying A Used Sailboat

Buying a pre-owned sailboat can be a an excellent opportunity for a savvy individual.

Reasons to Buy a Used Boat

1. Many times the seller will outfit the boat with all the little extras, exactly the way you would want it, but you will get these at little or no cost.
2. It's a great opportunity for the individual who doesn't know what he or she wants to do on the boat, or for families with tight budgets.
3. There is usually depreciation immediately after the purchase and you let someone else suffer that loss.
4. You can buy more boat for the money.

Things to Consider Before Purchase

Before considering buying a pre-owned sailboat there are a number of factors that need to be considered.

1. Where will you sail, how far, and how many people will be going with you on the boat?
2. Where will you keep the sailboat? Are there slips available locally or a reasonable distance from where you live? In some areas of the country it is much harder to locate a desirable slip than it is a boat. Slips that are available may limit the size of the boat you are looking for.
3. How much are you willing to spend?
4. In what shape is the boat and how much are you capable of or willing to repair?

Purchasing the Boat

1. Visit sailboat/sailing forums such as sailnet and read the reviews and post question about boats that interest you. The information you receive will be straight forward and useful.
2. Review local classifieds.
3. Visit local marinas and marine supply stores.
4. You may want to shop for new sailboats first so you can better compare. Local boat shops are an obvious first choice. Boat shows are great because there is a large variety of manufacturers and boats in one spot, and a it makes it easy to create your list of the critical or important traits of a boat you desire. You can then use this list to narrow down the large number of pre-owned boats available.
5. Once you find your boat, but before you buy - get a marine survey of the boat, which is a comprehensive examination of the boat. A marine survey is sort of like a home inspection. Often, structural defects or mechanical problems on boats that are old or have not been cared for properly, may be difficult to detect. Check with local marinas or look online at  www.marinesurvey.org or www.nams-cms.org.  There is no question that the expense will be money well spent. The cost is generally per linear foot and will vary by market. It is recommended that you get quotes from several surveyors. The surveyor should examine every part of the boat from the engine to the electrical system, itemize the equipment on board, and give the buyer a written statement of the condition as well as a list of recommendations. These might include minor (or major) repairs needed, equipment that needs service or replacement, and even an estimate of fair market value. A survey will give you the peace of mind knowing that nothing will need repair in the foreseeable future.