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Top Tips For Buying a Boat
By Donnie D
How can I make sure I choose the right boat?
Think about what you need, don't need and what you would like. Narrow down your choices to short lists of categories, makes, features etc. Ask yourself, what will I be using my boat for? spending time with family & friends, socialising, entertaining, racing, cruising, fishing (saltwater or freshwater?) sailing, holidays (sleeping), watersports etc, do your research on this, a lot of people don't think this far ahead! speak to people who are involved in boating, involve yourself in the community! more often than not they will go out of their way to help.
Visit boat shows and boat dealers
Now you have a narrowed down idea of what your require, visit boat shows and boat dealers (google search either) get on board the boats, get a feel for them and don't be afraid to ask questions (no matter how silly or obvious) if you are new to boating, tell the dealer that! chances are they will be extra friendly and helpful.
Do I buy new or used?
This really depends on the person buying the boat, if you have the money and intend on keeping the boat forever (or at least a long time) then buy it new! however if you feel you are on a budget and new to boating then purchase a second hand craft, a boat will probably lose half it's value in two years without many effects on the appearance or condition. Just because a boat is pre owned it does not mean it is "used", generally speaking boats spend 90% of their life out of use, sitting in the water or garage. Statistically speaking, most new boat owners upgrade within three years anyway.
Rule of thumb! unless money is no object, or you have a desire to own everything from new, go for a second hand boat! it makes sense.
Test drive time!
Did you know you can test drive a boat? see the way it handles and feels on the water! bring the family with you, get a feel for the environment you will be using it in! take it out to sea. Ask questions, get the family to ask questions, find out as much as possible.
Time to buy!
Discuss the options with your dealer, should you pay cash or finance? what are the added benefits of finance? a good dealer will go out of their way to help you find the best package available. This is also the time to be sure you understand the additional costs of boating, it's not just the fibreglass!
Accessories, water toys & safety gear
Operating costs (petrol)
Maintenance and upkeep
Storage (if a trailer in your garage or backyard is not an option)
Insurance
All of these are common sense but not a everyone thinks about these additional expenses when purchasing boats, all of the above apply to almost anything you buy. One thing for sure, the cost of owning a boat is nothing compared to the benefits derived from owning and using one!
Last but not least, enjoy!
There is a world to explore....
Thinking about boating? Talk to SussexPowerBoats
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
