Tips for buying a use boat

[aero993]

Hello,

I'm thinking about buying a used boat. I intend the have the boat checked out professionally. But, it would be nice if I could exclude boats and not waste money. I guess I'm asking for signs that would be a big red flag.

Thanks,

Anthony

[LuckyLady]

There is no real road map that will steer you clear of problems, problem boats or even problem sellers.

A lot of research and homework is required. Message board info has its good and its bad feedback. Most is true, the rest is just assumptions or bs.

If there is something that I can help you with, please feel free to hit me up. I have had many dealings with boats/engines on many different levels, and truly give my honest 02 and opinion.

Best of luck in your search!

[clt_capt]

having your a boat that you are interested in surveyed by a licensed surveyor is always a good idea. It would also be a good idea to have the engines surveyed as well by a qualified mechanic.

Buying a used boat is always a balance of what you are willing/able to spend, What your intended use is, How qualified you are to do maintenance and repair work (or be able to hire it out)

What are you looking to use your boat for? Where are you planning to use it? What is your level of experience?

[aero993]

I don't want to survey every boat that catches my eye. One question that I have is how many miles is too many if the motor hasn't been rebuilt?
I have no boat experience, I'm thinking about buying a center console. I plan to use the boat for offshore fishing. My budget is between $25k and $30k.

[LuckyLady]

I don't want to survey every boat that catches my eye. One question that I have is how many miles is too many if the motor hasn't been rebuilt?
I have no boat experience, I'm thinking about buying a center console. I plan to use the boat for offshore fishing. My budget is between $25k and $30k.

Any idea what size boat you are looking for?

Are you looking to trailer it?

I will suggest a few makes to check out that would be worth your while to check out.

I have dealt with just about every center console out there, thru service and sales background there are some good choices to be had

[craigwill201]

One this to think about the day you buy a boat is the day you will need to sell that boat. "You get what you pay for" is absolutely true in boating. You might save money up front with the value priced boat but when you go to sell is where its going to cost you. Buy quality from a well known manufacture, custom or production whatever but buy the best quality you can afford!
In todays economy there are unbelievable buys out there
http://www.tidalfish.com/classifieds...uct/2582/cat/4

Craig

[SureshotJerry]

http://www.yachtsurvey.com/usedboats.htm
This site has alot of good info , good luck.

[Cardinal Joe]

I don't want to survey every boat that catches my eye. One question that I have is how many miles is too many if the motor hasn't been rebuilt?
I have no boat experience, I'm thinking about buying a center console. I plan to use the boat for offshore fishing. My budget is between $25k and $30k.

The best advice I can tell you > Hire ''Lucky Lady'' to help find you a center console boat > it will be money well spent !

Cardinal Joe