The cost of a new boat is substantial.
So for the first time boat buyer, how can you make sure you’re getting the best deal available? When you’re buying a boat, put these tips to use.
1. Consider What You Want to Do On Your Boat
Are you looking to go fishing? Is your biggest passion for water skiing? Do you just want to take your family out for a day on the lake?
Are you more of a lake, ocean, or river person? Maybe you enjoy the ancient thrill of sailing a boat in the wind.
Depending on what you want to do with your boat will be a deciding factor on the boat you want to buy. But don’t worry! There’s a boat for every boater and every hobby.
2. How Often Can You Realistically Go Boating?
This is the hardest question to face. But how often can you realistically take your boat out?
Are weekends dedicated to family activities? Do you take regular work trips out of town?
Consider your boat payments compared to how many times you can take it out. Is it worth it? Will you be able to take your boat out as often as you expect to?
So what if you can’t make sense between your boating frequency and the cost of a new boat and all the extra fees? Well, you may want to consider these other options for boating on the cheap.
3. Where Can You Keep It?
Where will you keep your boat during the boating season? What about the off-season? Do you have enough room and can you afford any storage fees?
4. Set a Budget
So you’ve decided to go forth with getting a boat. Now you need to set a budget. First, factor how much you can put towards boat expenses each month. Then remember the payments themselves aren’t the only costs.
- Don’t forget these elements in your budget:
- Registration
- Insurance
- Fuel
- Moorage
- Drydocking
- Launch and lift out fees
- Hull cleaning and treatment
- Engine maintenance
- Sail and line replacements for sailboats
5. Consider the Size
A bigger boat isn’t always better. Usually, it’s just more expensive. So do you need accommodations for friends and family and weekend boat banquets? Or is it just you and a loved on fishing out on the lake?
Go with the smallest boat to fit your needs. It can save you big money in the long run. And remember, if you enjoy boating, you can always get a bigger boat later.
6. Pick a Boat
Once you know what you’re looking for, start your internet search. Narrow it down to two or three models.
Decide whether you need a new boat, or if you can get away with a used boat.
By now, you should have a rough cost estimate, and you should know the best boat for you.
7. Buy Your Boat
You know what you’re looking for and you’re ready to pounce. Check out different dealers, and different boating sales websites. Take your time and pick the best deal for you.
Whether you own your boat, or you’re still looking, get the latest boating tips at Boatplanet.com.
Enjoy your new boat!
These Tips are to Help the First Time Boat Buyer Get the Best Deal
While these tips are for the first time boat buyer, they can help any boater decide whether to upgrade to a new boat.
Consider your budget and what you want to use your boat for. Keep in mind the size and where you’ll store it in the on and off-season.
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