Used Boat Buying Guide
When you want a boat, but you can’t afford a brand-new model, it’s a good idea to check out the used market instead. The great part about this is that the used boat market is chock-full of excellent models that can offer you and your family years of wonderful boating adventures at a fraction of the cost of a new model. However, it is important to think about what you need from a used boat before you begin the shopping process.
Consider Your Needs
Boats come in different styles for a reason: not everyone wants to do the same things with their vessel. Maybe you want to tow water skiers, or you want to cruise with friends and family in the sun, or maybe you want to go on fishing excursions. Make a list of the features and qualities you need in a boat, such as how many people it should seat and what amenities it should have. This will help you to land on a particular style of boat that meets your needs.
Create a Budget
Your next order of business is to sit down with your finances and determine exactly what you can afford to spend. Typically, you’ll need to pay at least 10% to 20% of the full cost of the boat up-front as a down payment, even if you use financing for the rest of the cost, so you’ll want to have that. You’ll also want to figure out how much of a monthly payment you can make on any loan you take out. Don’t forget to factor in additional costs, such as insurance, maintenance and storage needs.
Do Your Research
The nice thing about the internet is that it allows you to do so much research and glean so much information from the comfort of your own home. Take your budget and the list of features you want in a boat to Google and start doing research on brands and models you may want. Make note of any reviews people have written, either from prior owners or professional organizations, about the pros and cons of any brand or model that you’re considering. This information will help you to further narrow down your options.
Perform an Inspection
When you finally land on a used boat that you like, don’t just hand the seller your credit card! You’ll want to inspect your chosen model closely, just in case there’s something wrong with it that wasn’t clear from photos. Look for cracks in the gel coat that can indicate a collision happened (this can result in hidden interior damage to the craft). Check for signs of mold or mildew in addition to leakage. Take a peek in the engine to make sure the oil is clean and that everything seems to be in order.
We hope this guide proves helpful to you in your boat-seeking quest! To check out a wide range of great used boats for sale, visit our dealership in Miami, FL. Jet Ski of Miami proudly serves the city of Hialeah, FL.