Used Boat Buying Guide

If you’ve been thinking about investing in a boat, there are many important questions to ask yourself before you take the leap. One of the most crucial questions you’ll want to consider is whether you should buy a new or used vessel. There are many perks to buying a pre-owned model, but where do you start?

Here at Chatlee Boat & Marine in Sanford, we work to make things easier for you! That’s why we have compiled our top tips to guide you through the buying process. When you’re ready to look at some high-quality used boats for sale near Raleigh, NC, visit our dealership.

Establish a Budget

One easy way to narrow your search is by establishing your budget. That way, you'll only be considering models that you can afford and ignore others that are beyond your price range. Your budget should allow for more than the sticker price since you’ll need to factor in the cost of any gear you’ll need, as well as fuel and insurance. Remember that most used boats will probably be out of warranty, which means that any repairs you need will be an out-of-pocket expense.

Narrow Down Your Options

Don’t put money down on a model until you have done enough research. You want to be sure about your decision. First, think about how you plan to use your boat, as this will make a difference in the model you choose. Once you start looking at specific models, you should check out some forums and review websites to see what previous owners have to say about their performance.

Inspection and Test Ride

There’s one last step before you make your final decision. After you have set your budget and done your research, you’ll need to check the used boat you’re thinking about buying. Look for red flags, such as dents, cracks on the hull, or corrosion. Damage can be a sign of poor maintenance and there’s a higher chance of internal damage that you can't see. These can both lead to expensive repairs. You can even consider hiring a professional to complete the inspection. 

Last but not least, take the boat out for a spin. You can’t know how the vessel is going to perform until you try it out for yourself on the water. Test all the controls so you know that everything is working properly!

When you are ready to explore our wide selection of used boats for sale, visit Chatlee Boat & Marine in Sanford, North Carolina. Our friendly staff will be happy to help you find the best craft for your needs. We proudly serve all those in Greensboro, so stop by today!