7 Things To Look For When Buying A Second Hand Boat
If you’re in the market for a used boat, it’s important to understand what to look for so you aren’t investing in a financial sinkhole. In this article, we’re going to outline 7 things to look for when buying a second-hand boat, so that you end up with a quality investment instead of a potential shipwreck.
1. How was the boat used?
This is an important thing to learn about your potential boat purchase because it gives you a good idea of what damage to look out for. Have they performed regular maintenance on it? It’s important to ask these types of questions so that you have a better understanding of the boat’s history and what potential issues to look out for.
2. Does it have well-kept maintenance records?
A logbook of the boat’s maintenance is another vital piece of information to look at when considering a second-hand boat purchase. Regular servicing and maintenance records show that the owner has taken good care of the vessel. Usually, a good second-hand boat will have been serviced at least once a year by a professional.
3. How many hours has the boat been in the water?
On average, a boat with an engine is expected to travel at least 50 hours per year to keep it in good working condition. There isn’t an easy way to determine this, so it’s a good idea to look at the engine yourself and check its overall condition.
4. Has the boat sustained any damage?
If the boat has any visible signs of damage, it’s usually a bad sign and a good indicator to avoid the boat entirely. There are less visible signs of damage to be wary of though, such as mould growing around the transom or deck core.
5. What’s included in the purchase of the boat?
Some sellers will try to hoodwink potential buyers by showcasing a fully-stocked boat with all the bells and whistles. In reality, it might just be the hull itself that they’re selling. So to make sure you’re getting a good deal, query what’s included in the purchase of the boat.
6. How does the battery look?
Batteries are expected to last about five years before they need to be replaced. Find out how old the battery is and take a look at the terminals for any signs of corrosion or damage.
7. Is a professional inspection worth it?
A seaworthy inspection report is a great idea if you’re looking for peace of mind during a boat sale, especially if it’s a used boat. These are performed by professionals and take around an hour to two hours to complete. At the end of it, you’ll have a full run-down of the boat to help you make an informed decision before buying it.
