Used Boat Buying Guide
If you’ve been thinking about purchasing a boat, but you’re not sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. There are so many factors to think about before you make a big investment. After all, you want to feel confident that you’re getting your money’s worth. It’s also important to choose the right model for your needs. Captain Kirk's Marine is here to help. We’ve provided this used boat buying guide to help you get started. Keep reading to learn more!
Establish a Budget
No matter what type of boat you’re looking to purchase, the very first thing you should do is establish a firm budget. It’s too easy to begin shopping without having a limit in mind. Before you know it, you’ll be sucked in by a shiny new model that’s beyond your means. When it comes to selecting a pre-owned boat, it’s important to factor in additional costs. Your expenses don’t stop at the sticker price. You should also be thinking of general maintenance, licensing, insurance, registration, safety equipment, and so forth.
Research, Research, Research!
Before you put any money down, it’s imperative that you do some research on the model you’re looking at. You want to be certain that it’s going to serve you well for years to come. Start by thinking about how you plan to use your craft, which will help you narrow it down to a specific model. For example, you can choose from a fishing boat, pontoon boat, and many more options. Your goal is to find a vessel that’s geared toward the purpose you have in mind. After you’ve narrowed it down, research the make and model year that you’re considering. Check forums and review websites to see what previous owners have to say about its performance.
Inspection & Test Drive
If your research checks out, the next step is to inspect the boat. When you tour the model, you need to be as thorough as possible with your inspection. You’ll be looking for potential red flags. Small cracks around joints and corners aren’t usually an issue, but ones that radiate from a central point may indicate a previous collision or impact event that has compromised internal components. Also, take some time to examine the wood and metal surfaces for signs of rot or corrosion. You should avoid boats that have evidence of mildew or mold.
Last but not least, always go for a test drive! It might look beautiful sitting at the dealership, but you won’t really know much about its performance until you drive it. Hit the water and test out all the equipment to confirm it’s properly functioning. If this is your first boat and you’re not sure about inspections, you might want to hire a professional to take care of it for you.
That’s all there is to it! You’re well on your way to finding the perfect pre-owned boat. Give us a call or swing by today! Captain Kirk's Marine is located in Spring, Texas and our dealership is proud to serve the nearby cities of Houston and Baytown, Texas.