It's smart to make some modest investments in preparing your boat for sale. The basics of sale prep aren't that complicated, and need not be expensive or time-consuming.Strongly consider having the boat surveyed. Traditionally that’s on the buyer's dime, but more and more sellers are getting on board. Why? Having a survey in place makes the deal more approachable. Shoppers can be skittish about engaging you in the absence of assurances that you aren't trying to hide problems.
World Yachts has good working relationships with several surveyors. The surveyor will identify needed repairs and help you prioritize them. You also will get information on defects common to your production boat.
The most common type of survey is called "pre-purchase condition and valuation." All accessible areas of the boat and marine systems will be inspected, including, hull, deck, propulsion systems, electricals, plumbing, and navigation systems. The usual surveyor's fee is $13 to $14 per linear foot. Corrosion analysis, spectrometric oil analysis and sea trials will cost extra.
There’s one more potential buyer incentive. Depending on how current it is, the survey may well satisfy the assurance requirements of the buyer's insurer and/or lender. Again making the entire deal more approachable.
We may also make some recommendations about cost-effective ways to spiff up the boat for buyer inspection. Buyers generally understand that spring cleaning and scrubbing will be necessary, but some of that you might do yourself.
Shopping for boats has moved online to such a degree that you will want to prepare a nice portfolio of photos. Show the boat under way on the water and in storage. Buyers will want to see the bottom and some interior views. World Yachts will work closely with you in preparing your online ad. The more info you can provide us with, the better.
