Brokerage / Pre-owned
Brokerage Purchase Advice
Boat ownership should be enjoyable and rewarding for you and your family. Whether you are buying your first boat or you have owned several, the following I hope you will find helpful.
Using a accredited ABYA or similar broker is always good advice. By using an experienced broker, they will hopefully have already checked the vessel and its papaerwork and if they are a good broker they will have advised their client about how best to present the boat. Many brokers specialise in certian types of vessel and for instance if you are looking for a blue water cruising yacht I would always suggest that you start by speaking to a suitably experienced broker.
A dirty, untidy and cluttered boat should start the warning bells, a well presented clean and tidy boat is what you as a purchaser should expect at a minimum. All the correct paperwork and a comprehensive inventory listing and good background history should be expected.
Ask the broker as many questions as you feel you need to, but remember his client is the vendor (owner) and not you.
You need to ask yourself some important questions when looking for a boat to buy. These may include:-
- Is the boat correct for me and my family?
- Is the boat correctly priced?
- Has the broker got all the paperwork and is everything in order?*
- Is the boat in good condition or does it need work/repairs?
- What equipment do I need to install/upgrade for my intended use?
- Where will I keep the boat?
- What do I have to do to maintain my boat and the budget?
- Do I need to arrange training for me or my family to enjoy the boat?
* Recommended paperwork required:-
- Bill of Sale
- VAT Invoice
- Builder Certificate
- RCD Documentation
In addition to the above a full inventory of what is and is not being included in the sale should be available.
Remember the broker is acting for the vendor (owner) of the vessel and not you. For independent advice and support you need to employ the services of an experienced marine surveyor. He will be able to guide you through the purchase process giving advice and support at each stage and ultimately making sure you end up with the right boat in the right condition at the right price.
We are here at Hamble Marine Surveys to assist you in every aspect of your boat purchase whether your needs are limited to just a Pre-Purchase Survey or you require assistance in other areas. Julian Smith has worked as an accredited ABYA Broker and in New Boat Sales. He is able to advise on all aspect of brokerage sale and purchase and provide the support and advice needed to allow you to make the correct decision.
We are open and transparent to the potential conflict that can exist between taking a brokerage position and that of a surveyor's position. To meet our code of conduct as IIMS & YDSA surveyors we will always disclose our position so no conflict can exist.
Contact us for a quote or to arrange a meeting to discuss your purchase.