One of the best places to buy a boat is at the boat show. This is because there are so many boats and dealers here. However, this does not mean you ignore the input of boat surveyors Baltimoretrusts. The input of a surveyor is indispensable. However, before you get to the survey phase, there are a couple of things you will need to do.
Set a budget
Before you head to a boatyard or boat show, the first thing you must do is set a budget. You need to figure out how much you can afford. If you plan on financing the purchase, know how much you can afford for a down payment and monthly payment. You should then stick to your budget when you start shopping. Having a budget will also help boat surveyors Baltimore help you determine if the purchase you are about to make is a wise one. Make sure your budget accounts for repairs and maintenance costs.
Know what you want
It is good to have a game plan before you head to the boat show. A game plan in this case is knowing what you want to buy. Do you need a fishing or cruising boat? How big should the boat be? Which pieces of equipment must the ideal boat have? Compiling a list of all the things you want in a boat will keep you from being overwhelmed at the boat show. Needless to say, knowing what you want in a boat helps a boat surveyor determine if the vessel you are considering is a good fit for your intended purpose.
Get the boat inspected
Even where the boat is being sold by the most reputable dealer in the region, you should take some time to inspect the vessel. Start by getting on the boat and inspecting everything on it. If all seems to be in perfect order, go ahead and bring in an independent marine surveyor. The surveyor will use specialized equipment to assess the condition of the boat. The surveyor will also provide you with details on the fair market value of the boat. You can use this information to negotiate a good deal.
Keep shopping
If you haven’t found exactly what you want, don’t settle. Keep shopping. This is because there is nothing more heartbreaking than settling and paying for a boat only to find your dream boat in a different boat show. Before you settle, make sure you exhaust all your options. Only settle for what you want and not what is available.