Are you looking for a boat to purchase or sell? Congratulations! It’s an exciting time to buy or sell a boat. It can be overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers.
A boat broker or dealer can help ease the burden and ensure everything goes smoothly. How do you know which option is best for you? Although both boat and yacht brokers can be great options, each caters to different types and sizes of boats.
Do you need help determining which one is best for your situation? Today’s blog post compares boat dealers vs. yacht brokers. Continue reading to find out which option is best for you.
Buying a New Boat from a Boat Dealer
Boat dealers are experts in selling specific brands. They are ideal for those looking for specific boat models from a particular manufacturer. Boat dealers are also knowledgeable about the brands they sell so that they can answer any questions.
Boat dealers can connect you (the buyer) with your boat’s manufacturer. Your boat dealer can assist you in obtaining a new model that meets your needs. They will also take care of future repairs, upgrades, or replacements.
Locate a Boat Dealer
Purchasing Tips
A boat dealer may be the best option. These are some tips to help you buy a boat from a dealer.
- Purchase in the off-season: Prices will be lower if you wait from September to February.
- Visit a boat show. It’s show season! Visit a boat show and meet dealers to view different types of boats.
- Purchase the model from last year. Dealers often have several models in stock. A slightly older model will cost you significantly less than a comparable boat.
- Ask for a Discount: When you order a custom boat from a dealer, ask them if they will pass on their discount (of not having inventory and financing).
- Be prepared before you go. Instead, do your research and decide what type of boat you want. Also, consider what engine size/brand you prefer and what upgrades you would like. Finally, determine how much you are willing to spend. You can also learn questions that you can ask your boat dealer.
- Do not bargain. Boat dealers have smaller margins than car dealerships, so be reasonable in your bargaining.
Buying Used Yachts from a Yacht Broker
The yacht broker represents either the buyer or the seller in the used boat marketplace. They are responsible for assessing fair value, advertising, managing trials at sea, financing, and closing the deal. They earn a commission as a result.
Brokers have deep knowledge of the boating market and are used by many sellers and buyers to facilitate boat transactions. Brokers can help you sell any type or brand of the boat. Dealers are limited to the brands they know.
You might be pleased to learn that brokers often list their inventory nationwide if you sell through them. This means that they can attract a broad range of buyers. Brokers help boat owners to value their boats and negotiate on behalf of the owner. They also process paperwork that needs to be clarified.
A yacht broker can help you locate similar boats and recommend models. They can also arrange safe and convenient ways to test drive boats.
Because of their ability to simplify complex transactions, yacht brokers are often used to sell larger vessels. Surveys, documentation, and other requirements are required for yacht sales. A broker will take care of all the details.
Selling and Purchasing Tips:
Here are some tips for buying a yacht from a broker:
- Be loyal to one: Think about yacht brokers like lawyers or agents in the real estate industry. Stick with the one you have found.
- Could you find out about their resources? Used boats can present a variety of problems. You want to ensure your broker is equipped to handle these situations (financing companies, insurance providers, etc. ).
- Do not let a broker pressure you into a survey. This will only make you miserable!
- Let the broker deal: Yacht brokers can be professional negotiators. So that your emotions are not affected by the transaction, let them speak for you.
- Check their communication skills. Any yacht broker must have strong communication and organizational skills.
