The Best Places to find Used Boats for Sale

As I see it there are three main options of places to purchase a used boat; a used boat broker, a private seller and the one that may not automatically spring to mind boat auctions. And how to find out about any of these are papers, the internet or knowledgeable friends. Knowing someone who has bought from a broker before is good because you gain an insight into the type of company you’re buying from (and hopefully not end up being bullied into a sale through a hard sell salesman). I think that’s a key thing about boat buying, take a lot of time making your decision, don’t let anyone or any situation pressure you into anything. From my experience giving yourself time to think and figure out what your gut is telling you is always the way to go. The great thing about buying through a broker is you get that professional touch and if you are a little inexperienced they can guide you to a good marine surveyor etc.

Private sellers are can be more risky, but as long as you do your homework (making sure there is the correct paperwork etc) and you love the boat then there shouldn’t really be too much of a problem. Now, boat auctions, are somewhat of an odd creature. It’s not exactly what you may think of as a typical auction, the seller can reject your offer, it’s not live and you do not know the other bids. In a way this takes off the pressure of a bidding war. Getting a marine survey in this situation can also be a bit trickier but is no way impossible. At the end of the day it’s about finding the right boat for you, through whatever channels you choose.