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How Do I Choose a Marine Surveyor in Annapolis?

Hiring the right professional for an Annapolis marine survey is the most important thing you must do when buying a used boat. This is because the input of the surveyor will keep you from making the wrong investment. In this post, we will be examining the key things you must do to find the best surveyor.

Hire a surveyor with qualifications and memberships

In your search for answers to the question of how do I choose a marine surveyor, you might be astonished to learn that there is absolutely no educational requirement for a marine surveyor. Anyone can pose as a “marine expert” and volunteer to inspect a vessel. Experienced surveyors distinguish themselves by seeking membership in a surveyors’ association like SAMS, NAMS, or another organization. Being a member of an organization offers credibility to a surveyor’s assertions. This is because these organizations seek to establish a framework for controlling industry standards, and some have created training programs of their own that aid in coordinating skill levels within their own association.

Focus on experienced surveyors

It makes sense that the surveyor you select should be aware of what they are searching for and what they are looking at. That is why you should pick a surveyor based on their experience. Since surveyors come from a variety of backgrounds, there is no substitute for expertise in this field. Always find someone who has expertise surveying the kind of vessel you require, then inquire about their background and ask to see a sample report.

Consider their background

Is it sufficient that your surveyor has been providing this service since graduating from college but has never owned a boat? The surveyor you select should have experience with the specific sort of vessel you need to be surveyed, and if he is fair and honest, he should limit his work to these types of vessels solely. You might need to find a larger surveying firm with partners that have a variety of competencies to fulfill your demands if you have a large and complex vessel such as a superyacht.

Consider their fees

As you learn how do I choose a marine surveyor, you should learn about the prices. The majority of small vessel surveyors bill by foot. The fee ranges increase in line with the complexity of the boat’s systems and length. Additionally, there is a different scale for each sort of survey, which reflects the level of detail needed for each.

The above points will definitely help you find the right boat surveyor to hire. You must, however, never use price as the only determining factor. The surveyor you end up hiring must be the one you feel most comfortable working with.

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Who Typically Pays for a Boat Survey in Annapolis?

When buying a pre-owned boat, it is always wise to get a professional Annapolis marine survey done. The purpose of the survey is to reveal any issues the boat might have. The survey will also help you understand the fair market value of the boat thus keeping you from paying too much for it.

There are four key reasons why you might need a marine survey in Annapolis:

  • To get assurance on the true condition of a boat.
  • Document all the issues a boat has and get an estimate of how much the repairs will cost.
  • Understand the market value of the vessel
  • For insurance and for lending.

The above are the main reasons why you might need a boat survey to be done. A boat survey can be requested by either a boat owner or a boat buyer. They both benefit from the service. But who typically pays for a boat survey?

Who pays for the survey?

In almost all instances, the buyer of a boat is the person that hires and pays a boat surveyor. This is because when buying a used boat, you want to get as much information about it as possible. It is only by working with an experienced marine surveyor that you will be able to get all the details including those that might have been missed or concealed by the seller.

The person that needs the services of a marine surveyor is the one that pays for the survey. However, there are unique situations where the seller might try to entice you to buy their boat by offering to pay for the survey services. When this option is offered, refrain from using the surveyor provided by the seller. You should get an independent surveyor to conduct the survey for you.

Other expenses

A pre-purchase survey involves more than just walking around the boat and documenting the condition of the boat. When you need a more detailed survey, the boat may need to be slipped. This means it will be removed from the water so that the surveyor can inspect the bottom part of the hull. When this happens, the person that requests this service will be the one to pay for the slipping and cleaning of the boat. In this case, you, the buyer, will be footing the bills. Another expense to prepare for is the cost of a sea trial.

Now that you know who typically pays for a boat survey, the next step is to find the best surveyor in the business. Keep in mind that not every surveyor will do a good job. Hire someone that is not only experienced but has a great track record.

Who Typically Pays for a Boat Survey

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Annapolis Marine Survey – Water Intrusion on a Used Boat

When buying a used boat, it is always highly recommended to get a professional Annapolis marine survey. The reason for this is that when it comes to pre-owned boats, nothing is as it seems. Sellers tend to mask boat problems in order to make a quick buck. If you don’t want to be a victim, you must consider enlisting the support of a marine surveyor in Annapolis.

The question that begs to answer is this: is a marine survey worth it? The answer is definitely a resounding yes. This is more so when you consider the issue of water intrusion. Water intrusion into the deck, hull, or stringers can be disastrous. The sight of this issue is usually a telltale sign of mandatory repairs. But how would you know if the boat you are after has water intrusion? The answer is to get a marine survey from an experienced surveyor.

Moisture intrusion mostly lies in the wood and the coring materials. Marine-grade plywood, balsa wood, and foam can all absorb water. With time, the absorption will start to spread by wicking and capillary action. If the issue is not resolved as soon as possible, catastrophe will follow. The absorbed water will add weight to your structure as well as weaken it. This can eventually lead to the complete failure of important fittings such as stanchions and cleats.

When you contact a marine surveyor, he will perform a visual inspection of the water damage. If he suspects there are more issues, the surveyor will make use of a moisture meter to help detect where water intrusion has taken place.

There are many types of moisture meters. One version uses a probe that is inserted into the wood. The probe passes an electrical current to measure resistance. This helps detect if there is water present. Another popular option is the one that uses electromagnetic fields in the surrounding structures to measure frequency difference. The frequency differences help determine if there is water content. This type of moisture meter is not inserted into the structure being tested.

Each type of moisture meter has pros and cons. As a result, it is not uncommon to find a marine surveyor in Annapolis that combines more than one type of moisture meter during an inspection. Moisture meters are mainly used to detect water intrusion around the deck hardware.

Without a moisture meter, it is hard to detect the presence of water intrusion. This is why the answer is yes to the question of is a marine survey worth it. Refrain from doing inspections on your own. This is because you lack the training, experience, and equipment needed to perform a thorough marine survey.

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Marine Surveyor Annapolis – Guide for Buying a Used Boat

Whether you are eyeing a yacht for your next business venture or a fishing boat, buying a used boat will save you a great deal of money. The best thing is most used boats only need a little work to perform as perfectly as new boats. However, to avoid buying the wrong vessel, it is imperative that you involve a marine surveyor Annapolistrusts.

The role of a boat surveyor is indispensable when buying a used boat. The marine surveyor Annapolis will perform a thorough inspection of your target boat and compile a report with all the issues it may have. The surveyor will also help you know if the vessel you are targeting is a good fit for your intended use. You will also get information on the fair market value of your target boat. All this information will help with decision-making and also give you a better hand during negotiations. With that out of the way, let’s take a look at the key things you must do when buying a used boat.

Decide on the type of boat you want

When buying a boat, the most important thing to do is decide on the type of boat that you want. The type of boat will depend on what you need the vessel for. For example, if you plan on taking day trips on your boat, the pontoon boat will be perfect for you. Anglers often opt for center-console, dual-console and flat boaters.

After settling on the platform that works great for your needs, the next step is to do a little research on the makes and models that come highly recommended. Online reviews will offer crucial information on a vessel.

Balance your budget

Now that you know the kind of boat you need, the next thing you have to do is focus on how much you can afford. Do not simply jump into the purchase of a used boat. In addition to the initial purchase price, there are other expenses you have to budget for including the cost of insurance, storage, repairs, fuel, and general maintenance. Choose a boat that will not strain you financially to operate.

Work with a surveyor

With your list of promising boats in hand, the next step is to narrow down the list to the best vessel. The best way of doing this is by working closely with a marine surveyor in Annapolis. The surveyor will report on the condition of the vessel and help you know if it is a worthy investment. The input of a surveyor simply keeps you from purchasing a doomed vessel.

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What is Included in the SAMS Survey?

Do you need an accredited marine surveyor in Annapolis? If you do, one of the best surveyors to work with is the SAMS surveyors. SAMS (Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors) is an organization that has about 1,000 surveyors throughout the world. The organization is considered to be one of the most prestigious accreditation bodies because of its strict rules when accrediting surveyors. A surveyor is required to have at least 5 years of experience acquired in a span of 10 years and must pass an accreditation exam as well as participate in continuous learning programs. SAMS further offers annual education conferences for the members where they discuss damage avoidance, recommended practices, advanced inspection techniques, legal liabilities, and other areas. All this makes a SAMS survey one of the best surveys you can get.

Prior to getting the SAMS survey, it is good to note persons who fail to meet the prerequisites can also be SAMS members. For practicing marine surveyors who fail to meet all the requirements, they become a member as SAMS surveyor associates. There is also the provision of SAMS affiliate members. This is offered to members that run a business that offers products or services that relate to the marine industry. Practicing boat surveyors cannot be affiliate members.

Now that you understand who is a SAMS surveyor, let’s focus on what is contained in the SAMS surveys. Once a marine surveyor is done with a boat inspection, you will be provided with a written report. The details contained in the report will depend on the type of survey that was being done. The main types of surveys are:

  • Condition & valuation survey
  • Limited condition & valuation survey
  • Appraisal
  • Damage inspection
  • Sea trial

Here are some of the details that are contained in a full survey report:

  • Name of the boat, its hull identification number, and state or federal government-issued registration numbers.
  • Name of the current boat owners and buyers
  • The published dimensions of the boat as well as a description of the boat’s construction.
  • The installed equipment on the vessel
  • Condition of the equipment and systems on the boat
  • Any recommended repairs or improvements
  • Photographs of the boat from multiple angles
  • Photographs of the hull ID number as well as the registration form
  • Photographs of notable repairs or improvements
  • The fair market value of the boat

While SAMS-accredited marine surveyors in Annapolis offer the same services as other surveyors, you are guaranteed perfection and comprehensiveness when working with SAMS surveyors. Always confirm the accreditation details of a surveyor before hiring.

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How to Prepare for the SAMS Survey

Are you in need of a SAMS survey? If you are, the first thing you need to do is find a marine surveyor in Annapolis that is SAMS accredited or associated. As you may already know, SAMS has strict accreditation requirements which require at least five years of experience acquired over a period of 10 years and the completion of an admission exam. SAMS members are further required to adhere to strict codes of ethics and standards. Finding a verifiable SAMS surveyor is, therefore, the first thing you should do.

Once you find a surveyor that is accredited to offer a SAMS survey, the next step will be getting ready for the survey. It is obvious you need to find a boat you wish to buy first. The boat should then be clean and with all papers and gear. In most cases, before a boat surveyor in Annapolis arrives, you will need to make the necessary arrangements with the seller. This often involves paying an agreed down payment and arranging for hauling. You may also need to find a captain for a sea trial.

Keep in mind the work of the surveyor is to inspect the boat and compile a survey report. You should never ask them to prepare the boat. Keep in mind that you may be required to arrange for the minor dismantling of some components to facilitate the inspection. You may be asked to dismantle the ceilings, flooring, headliners, and other areas to allow access to the suspected problem areas. Any dismantling and reassembly of parts must be done by qualified personnel. Make sure you make arrangements for this before the marine surveyor arrives.

Another very important thing you will need is an authorization from the seller. The surveyor has no way of knowing if the boat being inspected belongs to you or is stolen. To avoid problems, you will need authorization from the boat’s owner. The authorization may have to be in writing. You will also need to provide ownership papers from the seller. The authorization should also allow the dismantling of components.

After retaining a boat surveyor in Annapolis, it is good to note that the surveyor only works for you. This means the surveyor will only report to you and not to the seller unless with your express permission. You will also be the person paying for the services and making arrangements that facilitate the inspection. With that being said, make sure you are on-site during the inspection and ask all the questions you may have.

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Marine Surveyors Annapolis – Best Guide for Buying a Boat

Owning a boat gives you the freedom to sail whenever and wherever you want. However, how much you enjoy will depend on the boat you buy. Choosing the right boat requires that you work closely with marine surveyors Annapolis and create a list of the things you want to do with the boat. In this post, we will be discussing the crucial things you have to do when buying a used boat.

Know what you need the boat for

The first step to finding the perfect boat is knowing the type of boat that you need. This requires that you compile a list of all the things you plan on doing with your boat. Here are the top factors you should consider:

  • The number of passengers. How many people will regularly be on board? Will you be hosting your immediate family or even extended family and friends? The answer to this helps decide on boat size.
  • Towing. Do you need a boat that you can tow from one point to another? The size of the boat will impact the size of the vehicle you will need for towing.
  • Location. Will you be using the boat on large waterways? If yes, you will need a bigger boat that has a deeper hull. A smaller vessel will be okay for smaller waterways.
  • Storage. Where do you plan on storing your boat? For larger boats, storing at the marina makes more financial sense. Keep in mind that the size of your boat will impact the cost of storage.

These are the key factors you must consider when deciding on a boat to buy. The best thing is marine surveyors Annapolis will be happy to help you know if the boat you are after is a good fit for you.

Set a budget

Now that you know what you need in a boat, the next step is to set a budget. Be honest with how much you can afford. If you plan on using financing options, make sure you understand the monthly payments. Moreover, you should not just budget for the purchase price. You have to think about maintenance costs. A budget helps focus on the boats you can actually afford.

Get the boat inspected

After narrowing down on the best boats, the next thing you need to do is bring in an experienced marine surveyor for an inspection. Most boats are not as they seem. Some are in dire conditions. It is only with a professional boat inspection that you will be able to understand the precise condition of the vessel you are after. An inspection will also reveal the fair market value of the boat. You can use this information to negotiate a better deal.

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Surveyors Near Me – What is the Real Cost of Owning a Boat?

If you are thinking about buying a boat, you have to think about the real cost of owning a boat. Most people only consider the purchase price. The truth is in addition to spending money on a surveyor near me, you will also need to spend money on a number of things. In this post, we will be looking at the true cost of boat ownership.

Before we get started on the real costs, it is good to note that the cost of owning a boat will vary depending on the size and type of boat you buy. For example, if you are buying a larger boat, you can expect to pay more to the surveyor near me during an inspection. This is because boat surveyors charge per foot. Let’s take a look at the factors that impact the cost of boat ownership.

Boat registration

Every state has its own unique registration costs and fees. The cost of registration will depend on the length of the boat. The boat registration costs are usually paid to the state fish and wildlife agency or to the department of motor vehicles. An experienced marine surveyor or a boat dealer will be happy to educate you on boat registration and let you know where you should pay the registration fees. 

Boat Insurance

While it is not mandatory, it is always good to get insurance coverage for your boat. Insurance protects your boat against damages caused by an accident. The cost of boat insurance will depend on the age of your boat, your boater safety training, boat type, your boating history, the location where you will be using the boat and the level of coverage you select. Keep in mind that an insurance survey may be required. To get a good offer, use your own insurance surveyor. The surveyor sent by the insurance company may be biased.

Boater education

Studies have shown that educated boaters are less likely to get in an accident. You should consider completing a boating safety course after buying your boat. The course will not only help you be a safer boater but also help you qualify for better rates when applying for boat insurance.

Storage costs

Unless you will be keeping the boat in your own dock, you will have to think about the storage costs. it is more expensive to store your boat at the marina due to the convenience the option offers you.

Other costs you should prepare for include the cost of boat equipment, the cost of fuel and the cost of maintenance and repairs. As you set your budget, make sure you capture all these costs. The last thing you want is to buy a boat that you cannot maintain.

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Boat Surveyor Near Me – Costs to Prepare for Before Buying a Boat

When buying a boat, most buyers focus only on the initial cost of the boat. Many don’t even consider the importance of working with a boat surveyor near me. This is the reason most first-time boat owners end up being frustrated with their choice. If you don’t want this to be you, here are some of the costs you should plan for.

Inspection

If you plan on buying a pre-owned vessel, you are making a wise decision more so if you are on a tight budget. This is because a used boat helps you get the most from your money. However, not every used boat is in good condition. There are many buyers who do some cosmetic work to hide flaws on their boats. This is why if you are thinking about buying a used boat, you should consider working with a boat surveyor near me.

The primary role of a marine surveyor is to assess the condition of a boat. They observe, listen and use specialized equipment to understand the exact condition of a boat. The surveyor will then provide a detailed report that includes the fair market value of the boat, all the discovered problems and photographs of those issues. You can then use this information to make a better decision or negotiate a better deal with the seller.

It costs money to hire an inspector. For smaller boats, you may be charged a flat fee. However, for larger boats, boat surveyors charge a per-foot fee. You will also foot the cost of getting the boat removed from the water for the inspection of the underside.

Insurance

While not mandatory, you have to think about the cost of boat insurance. Considering a boat is a major investment, you want a reliable insurance cover to protect it regardless of the payment method you choose. It helps to know that you may require the services of a marine surveyor to perform an insurance survey. The insurance survey may be requested by the insurance company. How much you pay in insurance premiums will depend on the age of the vessel, its size, specific features and the purchase price.

Storage

Last but not least, you have to think about storage. Where will your boat stay when you are not using it? Do you plan on keeping it in a trailer or leaving it docked in a port marina? Needless to say, it costs money to transport and store a boat. The bigger your boat is, the more storage space it will need and the more money you will spend on storage.

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Boat Surveyors Annapolis – Be Careful When Buying a Used Boat

Boats are not cheap. That is why most first-time buyers and people on a tight budget turn to pre-owned boats. Used boats cost far less than brand new boats and they don’t experience as much depreciation as new boats. All the same, it is good to note that not every used boat out there is worth buying. Experienced boat surveyors Annapolis trusts will help you know if the boat you are targeting is worth investing in or not.

Being that this might be your first purchase, going for a used boat may make more sense both mentally and financially. This is because when you are new to boating, you are bound to make mistakes. The last thing you want is to scratch a brand new boat that you spend thousands of dollars on. Once you hone your boating skills, you can go ahead and upgrade to a better boat. All the same, let boat surveyors Annapolis trusts comb through your target used boat before paying for it. A boat surveyor will be able to identify the issues that your boat has as well as help you know if the boat is a good fit for your intended use. The surveyor will also help you know if the boat has been maintained and registered properly.

As you may already know, buying a used boat will save you several thousand dollars. The fact that modern boats are made of fiberglass and aluminum means they don’t rot as traditional wooden boats. This helps retain their value longer. When selling your used boat months or years later, you can expect to get an offer that is closer to what you bought the boat for.

However, it is good to dig deeper into the history of a boat so as to avoid making a bad investment. Here are some of the questions you should get answers to before purchasing a used boat.

  • How was the boat used? If it was a fishing boat, you should focus more on water damage.
  • How was the boat stored? Most boat owners don’t run their boats all year round. In the off-season, the boat is stored. Knowing how it was stored can give some insight into its condition and what to focus on during an inspection.
  • Has the boat ever had major repairs done? Most sellers will try to hide this information. An experienced boat surveyor will, however, be able to determine if any damage to the body f the boat was ever repaired.
  • What is the history of the boat? You need to know how the boat was used and make sure it is registered properly.

Before buying a used boat, it is always important to inspect it from top to bottom. Make sure that a sea trial is also done in order to get a better understanding of the boat’s condition.

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