You may think that you are ready to buy a boat for sale because you saved up your money for a year and the deal of the century is waiting for you at the local boat dealership. Before you go running down there with your checkbook in hand, carefully consider these questions about being ready to buy a boat so that you will truly enjoy your new purchase when the time is right.
1. Did You Consider All the Costs?
Take into account that in addition to the price of the boat that you have to pay for fuel, maintenance, repairs, storage, taxes, insurance, permits, gear, safety equipment, and more.
2. Have You Gotten Any Safety Training?
When you take your family and friends out on the water, you are responsible for their safety. In the event of a crash or the boat capsizes from a rogue wave, you better be prepared to handle these scenarios in a timely and calm manner.
3. Are You Aware of The Cost of Using the Marina?
Renting space at the local marina is not cheap. The size of your boat, the times of year, and how many amenities you need will all increase the cost to rent space to store you boat there.
4. Did You Really Shop Around?
If you just hit the boat dealership and feel you got the best deal, think again. Go online and shop at social media sites, check your local classified, go to a boat show and don’t forget to check on Boatmo.com. There are plenty deals on boats all around your town if you know where to look.
5. Is the Boat the Right Size?
Don’t make the mistake of getting a boat too big or too small for your needs or it will quickly diminish your fun on the water. Know your needs before you buy your boat and you will have a more enjoyable time out each trip.
6. Will This Boat Handle Your Activities?
Don’t buy a fishing boat if you plan to use it for water skiing and tubing. If you plan on going deep-sea fishing, the boat needs to be able to handle those rough seas and keep your gear and passengers safe.
7. Did You Test Drive the Boat?
Don’t sign the paperwork until you got behind the wheel and drive the boat on the water. You need to get a feel behind the wheel before you buy.
If you answered all these questions, then you are miles ahead of those who made an impulse buy and now regret their decision.