Quote: (03-10-2012 07:41 PM)xsplat Wrote:
What questions should I ask the owner when I meet him?
For 14 grand I wouldn't hire a marine surveyor, but the captain you want to hire would probably be a big help before you buy.
When I buy boats, the first thing I do is show somebody that I have the ability to pay for it. I'm more interested in the money side though.
Since you're a rookie, I'd keep it brief with the questions for negotiation purposes. If you look like you don't know what you're doing a broker will hold your feet to the fire. But, if you tell them you got an experienced captain around to look at it, they might not try to shark you.
Ask if it comes with a transferable slip, and how much that is and what it includes.
Some others:
1) Where was it during the 2004 tsunami!!!!!!
2) What kind of insurance does it currently have and how much.
3) When's the last time it was pulled and painted and how much was it.
4) How much documentation of maintenance is there.
5) How old is it and who made it.
The point is, even though you don't know boats, you know money, and you aren't gonna get screwed.
Aloha!