Question:
I am in the process of buying a used boat. First of all I wanted
to understand well how boats are made, used, and sold so that I could
get a good value and not be taken.
In particular, I would like to know what to look for when looking
for problems when buying a boat, how to establish the proper boat value,
etc.
Is there such a thing as a blue book for boat values?
Are there any websites that explain this process, like many websites
for automobile buyers?
I am generally looking for something used, for $3000 or so, that works
without giving too many problems, and that would seat 6+ people. I am
not sure, at this point, about usefulness of various features (cuddy
cabin etc) and would like to learn more.
My first question is, which parts of the boat are most likely to
have machanical problems? I see that motor is probably one of
them, what else?
Is there anything wrong with buying a 15+ old boat?
How much does a decent 80hp or so motor cost, if I consider buying
a replacement motor?
Answer:
It sounds like you need to do a LOT of shopping around. A $3000 boat here
in Alabama will be right on the threshold of a money pit. If you know for
SURE that a 10-year old boat has been properly maintained, then go for it.
Otherwise, you can end up with a big never-ending problem. Buying a new
replacement 80hp motor will easily cost you more than a complete used rig.
The motor is the heart of the boat, make SURE its a good one. You wouldn't
believe how many motorless boats I see for sale on the side of the road that
have been for sale for YEARS because they're worthless.
I got a great deal on a 3-month old repossessed pontoon boat through a local
bank. Find out who the boat dealers use for most of their financing, and
then wait till August or September, and pick up a practically new boat for
half price or less. You might have to pay more in the neighborhood of
$4-$5000, but it would be a NEW boat that's still under warranty.
