By Ron Gorka
Sadly there comes a time in the life cycle of many cherished boats when circumstances dictate that it’s time to sell. While selling is not as simple as putting an ad in the paper and waiting until an eager buyer comes along with the cash, neither does it need to be a trauma-filled experience. Please note that these tips apply to smaller boats, say up to 24 or 25 feet, and not to vessels that should be handled by a yacht broker and require a marine survey.
Step one of course, is making sure your boat is ready to sell. A motor that won’t start or runs rough are likely things that can be repaired inexpensively by a qualified marine mechanic. You really should have the boat in top running condition if you hope to maximize your selling price. Your boat needs to be as clean and polished as you can get it and, if you don’t have the time or energy, have it professionally detailed… money well spent as it will increase the value of your boat well beyond the small investment. If the boat has been bottom painted and the paint has deteriorated to the point where it has become unsightly, by all means have it re-coated, first impressions mean a lot.
What is it worth? Check the average selling price of your boat, motor and accessories by referencing the NADA book value on line: Google it! Also, get a feel for what similar boats are selling for in your area by checking Craiglist, E-Bay and local Facebook pages.
Craigslist is almost a must for advertising locally and it’s free for the “Boats for Sale by Owner” category. Typically, there are local Facebook pages that welcome personal “For Sale” ads and some may be dedicated to boats and marine products. We here at Sunset Dreams offer an assist to sell program and can handle all aspects of marketing your boat. We have a full service marine facility offering experienced mechanical service, boat detailing, and professional bottom painting. We are well located on Pine Island Road where your boat will be on display to everyone entering or leaving Pine Island by land! We are used to dealing with all sorts of prospects from the “snow-birds”, that are new to boating, to the “tire kickers”, the “low-ballers”, the “con-artists” and most of all, the sincere buyers who are looking for a boat just like yours. Check our current inventory at our web site: www.sunsetdreams.com, send me an email at ron@sunsetdreams. com or call for details at 239 283- 4843. Better yet, stop in and get to know us, we’re at 5149 Pine Island Road ¼ mile East of the 4-way stop at Pine Island Center!
