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.