Used Boats for Sale: 8 Professional Tips

The process of selling a used boat may seem simple, but it is very complex. From careful preparation and reasonable pricing to clever marketing and closing the deal, each step needs to be approached with care. In this article, we'll bring you 8 expert tips to help you prepare your used boat for sale for a quick sale.

Remove everything from your boat

When you decide to sell your used boat, you need to remove everything on the boat that belongs to you. For example, if the used boat you are planning to sell is a small center console, then you need to clear out the fishing rods, tackle box, and safety kit. This is because a potential buyer of a used boat will visualize the boat as his own when he buys it, rather than a boat full of other people's stuff.

Clean the boat thoroughly

The step of cleaning the boat thoroughly is very important for the successful sale of a used boat; a clean and tidy boat will show the potential buyer that the current owner has taken good care of it. If you did not take meticulous care of the boat while you owned it, make sure that you thoroughly clean the used boat before listing it for sale, including cleaning the interior and exterior of the boat. It is also important to maintain a clean appearance when listing a used boat for sale, and with regular grooming, a boat with a clean exterior is more appealing to buyers.

Check the engine and mechanical equipment

The condition of the engine, a key component of a power boat, is directly related to the value of the boat. Before selling, make sure that the engine is running well and that the oil and filters are clean and free of stains. Also, if there are any electrical, mechanical or engine problems with the boat, they should be checked and fixed before selling. This is because, if a buyer finds a mechanical problem while inspecting the boat, it is very likely that the deal will fall through.

Check for trailer and repair issues

If your boat is trailer able, then make sure that the trailer is in tip-top condition before listing it for sale. If the trailer is covered in rust spots, the tires are dry and cracked, and the lights still don't work, then no one will want to buy your boat. There are some simple operations you can do to spruce up your trailer and it won't cost much. All you need is a wire brush, some metal primer and spray paint to fix rust spots on the frame and wheelhouse. Rusty emergency chains and hitches, cracked and worn rollers and rails can all be easily replaced. Also, be sure to make sure all the lights come on properly and tidy up loose and messy wires.

Tackling mound and mildew

Excess moisture in the cabin is common and can become a major problem if left unattended. The odor from mound growth can put buyers off. Therefore, it is important to address the issue of mound before selling your used boat. You can use a moisture absorber to absorb excess moisture and a freshener to make the cabin interior smell fresh, dry and comfortable.

Fixing cosmetic issues

When preparing a boat for sale, consider investing a small amount of money in some simple cosmetic fixes that will enhance the boat's appeal. Examples include small issues such as torn canvas, damaged canvas zips, worn deck carpet or cracked seat upholstery. These small issues can sometimes change a buyer's overall impression of your used boat, increasing the chances of a successful sale.

Complete your to-do list

Before selling your used boat, make sure you complete those to-do items that have been sitting on the back burner. Examples include loose hinges, rusty gas assist struts, sticking hatches, damaged VHF antenna mounts, VHF radios with missing knobs, cracked bow light lenses, leaking hatches, and other minor issues that can affect the sale of a boat. You can make a list of the problems, check the boat's equipment thoroughly, and fix imperfections in a timely manner so that buyers don't use them as a bargaining chip to lower the price.

Prepare maintenance records

When selling a used boat, it is necessary to prepare maintenance records, which will show that you have carried out the necessary care and maintenance of the boat's power unit to ensure that the boat is in optimal operating condition. Potential buyers usually ask about engine maintenance when buying a used boat, and a detailed maintenance record can boost the buyer's confidence. For different types of engines, it is necessary to have a technician perform inspections and maintenance to clearly show the buyer that the engine is in good condition.