Boat inspection
Anyone buying a boat should give it a careful inspection before signing anything.
Sight down the hull in good light for evidence of significant repairs, and inspect the bilge for signs of flooding or bad leaks.
The purchase contract
If you like the boat, it passes your inspection and you and the seller come to terms, you should both sign a purchase and sale contract. The contract should identify the boat and state the price, the terms, the closing date, and whether your obligation to buy is subject to a satisfactory survey.
Read and understand the contract before signing.
Survey and sea trial
If the boat is relatively small, simple and inexpensive, and you’re knowledgeable, you may skip a formal survey. But ask for a sea trial when buying anything larger than a canoe.
A simple sea trial normally includes going from full ahead to full astern, steering from hard over to hard over, and a full power run for a few minutes.
Contact us with any questions, we’re happy to help.