When buying a used boat, it is important to ensure the vessel is in great condition and there are no issues.
Whether buying a pre-owned boat from a private seller or a boat dealership, a boat buyer should know what to look for and be able to inspect the vessel thoroughly.
To buy a used boat:
- Find a pre-owned boat for sale
- Inspect the used boat with a checklist
- Perform a sea trial
- Check the boat title and lien history
- Negotiate the price
- Organize a payment method with the seller
- Draft a bill of sale
These instructions apply to a boat buyer purchasing any type of used vessel from sailboats to yachts and pontoons.
1. Find A Pre-Owned Boat For Sale
The first step of the used boat buying guide is to find a used boat for sale.
To find pre-owned boats for sale:
- Browse Facebook marketplaces: Local Facebook marketplaces will have used boats for sale. Browsing Facebook marketplaces to find used boats is free to do
- Check boat classified websites: There are 3 main boat classified websites to find used boats which are boats.com, boattrader.com, and youboat.com. These are free boat classified websites to find used boats
- Contact local marinas: Contact local marinas and ask them for information on used boats for sale. Most likely, they will have information regarding all pre-owned boats for sale in your local area. This is free to do
- Check boat magazines: The 2 main magazines to find used boats for sale are Boat Trader magazine which is published monthly and costs $12.99 per issue and Classic Boat magazine which is published monthly and costs $9.99 per issue
- Visit a boat dealership: Visit a local boat dealership and check out their pre-owned boats. Boat dealerships will typically have the best quality pre-owned boats for sale
- Attend boat auctions: Attend boat auctions to find pre-owned boats for sale. Buyers can potentially find large savings at boat auctions
Choosing the right type of used boat will vary from one buyer to the next. Some buyers will prefer a pontoon whereas others may like a sailboat. It is a matter of preference.
Ensure that the pre-owned boat picked to buy is NMMA certified and within your budget, location, and capabilities.
An NMMA-certified boat is a boat that is built to certain higher standards set by the American Boats & Yacht Council (ABYC). A buyer can find an NMMA-certified sticker on the capacity plate of a boat.
If a boat has this NMMA-certified sticker attached to the boat, it means the vessel is certified. If it does not have this NMMA-certified sticker, it means the vessel is not NMMA certified.
Used boats for sale can be found in under 1 minute on boat classified websites and the Facebook marketplace. Used boats for sale can be found within 2 weeks if ordering a boat classified magazine online.
Boat classified websites, local marinas, boat magazines, boat auctions and marketplaces will offer used sailboats, yachts, pontoons, motorboats, catamarans, dinghies, speed boats, houseboats, etc. for sale for all budgets from $1,000 to over $1 million.
The most popular methods of finding a pre-owned boat to buy are browsing the Facebook marketplace and browsing boat classified websites.
The least popular method of finding a pre-owned boat to buy is contacting your local marina for information on used boats for sale as this is slower and it doesn't usually offer many boat options.
The best method for finding a pre-owned boat is by browsing boat classified websites like boattrader.com or boats.com as there are multiple boat makes and models for sale on these websites and plenty of choices for boat buyers.
2. Inspect The Used Boat Thoroughly
The second step of the used boat buying guide is to inspect the used boat thoroughly.
There are two methods of inspecting a pre-owned boat which is to hire a professional marine surveyor or manually inspect the vessel using a marine inspection checklist to follow.
Hiring a professional marine surveyor costs between $15 and $25 per foot. Manually inspecting the boat with a checklist is free to do.
The benefits of hiring a marine surveyor are they are professionals with plenty of experience in evaluating a boat's condition and they will spot potential problems with a used boat faster than someone with no experience.
The benefit of following a marine inspection checklist is that it will help potential buyers to make a preliminary evaluation of the boat's condition for free.
The most popular method of inspecting a used boat before buying it is by using an inspection checklist and manually checking the boat yourself.
To inspect a boat manually, follow a used boat inspection checklist.
Used Boat Inspection Checklist
Below is a used boat inspection checklist to follow.
| Checklist Item | Information | Completed |
|---|---|---|
| Inspect the hull surface | Inspect the hull surface for osmosis (bubbles/blistering), cracks, scratches, or paint color fading or peeling. Osmosis and cracks can affect the structural integrity of the boat hull. | ▢ |
| Check the condition of the anodes on the hull | Zinc and aluminum anodes on the hull can rust, crack and corrode. Ensure the anodes are in good condition with less than 50% corrosion. | ▢ |
| Check the hull identification number (H.I.N.) | Read the H.I.N. (located usually on the stern). Use the hull i.d. to check the boat history. Compare these boat history details to what is being advertised by the boat owner. | ▢ |
| Check the condition of the boat rudder/propeller | Assess the boat rudder/propeller to ensure there is no damage/cracks or wobbles from the propeller shaft. The rudder/propeller should move easily without being stiff. | ▢ |
| Check the condition of the keel | Inspect the keel and make sure there are no cracks, damage or a large build up of dirt that can disguise any damage. | ▢ |
| Check the bilge and bilge pumps | Inspect the bilge and bilge pump. Ensure the bilge pump is working properly and there is not any excessive amounts of water/oil in the bilge area | ▢ |
| Inspect the boat deck thoroughly | Inspect all of the boat deck for signs of damage, cracks, indentations, stains, or leaks. Ensure the boat deck does not have any issues as it can be expensive to repair after buying the vessel. | ▢ |
| Inspect the boat deck railings | Inspect all of the boat deck railings. Ensure there is no damage, signs of wear, or corrosion. | ▢ |
| Ensure the navigation lights are working | Inspect all the navigation lights onboard and ensure they are in full working order. These navigation lights include stern lights, masthead lights, side lights, and docking lights. | ▢ |
| Inspect the boat engine | Check the boat engine including the condition of the oil tank, fuel tank, engine mount, seacocks, valves, plugs and the external condition of the motor. Ensure there are no signs of corrosion or any leaks or damage. | ▢ |
| Check the transom | Check the transom for signs of wear or damage. Ensure there is no corrosion or rust in the transom area as this is expensive to repair after buying the boat. | ▢ |
| Check the boat motor serial number | Read the boat engine serial number (located usually on the starboard side of the motor, just below the engine powerhead). Input the serial number into a boat motor database. The motor database can be found on the specific brand of motor website. Compare the boat engine database details to what is being advertised by the boat owner and ensure the make, model and horsepower match. | ▢ |
| Check the boat maintenance logs | Ask for the boat maintenance log/receipts and inspect the areas of the boat that have been repaired in the past. | ▢ |
| Check the boat exhaust system | Inspect the boat exhaust system for any damage or leaks. If a marine exhaust system is extra smoky, it could be a sign of internal damage. | ▢ |
| Check all the safety equipment onboard | Check the condition of the liferafts, life jackets, fire extinguishers, lifelines, lifebuoys, flares, etc. Ensure there is no damage or excessive wear on any of the safety equipment. | ▢ |
| Assess the boat anchor | Analyze the boat anchor and make sure there is no damage or cracks in the anchor. | ▢ |
| Check the electronics onboard | Analyze the onboard electronics including VHF radio, chart plotter, compass, GPS, boat horn, plugs, microwave, tv, sound system, electrical panel, air conditioner, heater, bilge pump, wiring, refrigerator, battery terminals, flashlights, and smoke alarms/detectors. Ensure they are functioning properly with no wear or damage. | ▢ |
| Check the mast, mainsail, jib & boom, rigging, lines, shrouds, and stays | Assess the condition of the mast, mainsail, jib & boom, rigging, lines, shrouds, and stays. Make sure there are no signs of corrosion, damage, or bad wear. | ▢ |
| Check the sails (where applicable) | Check the condition of the sails and ensure there are no tears or damage to them. | ▢ |
| Inspect the boat upholstery | Inspect the condition of the boat upholstery. Ensure it is in good condition with no rips, color fading, or UV damage. | ▢ |
| Inspect the boat holding tank | Inspect the boat holding tank for leaks, damage, or signs of bad wear. | ▢ |
| Inspect the condition of the Bimini top and canvas | Assess the condition of the Bimini top and boat canvas. Ensure there are no rips, color fading, or bad signs of UV sun damage. | ▢ |
| Check the stove (where applicable) | Check the stove and ensure it is in full working order with no damage, cracks, or leaks. | ▢ |
| Check the hatches | Ensure all the hatches are working correctly with no damage or corrosion to them. | ▢ |
| Check for warning signals/alerts after boat startup | Check the boat cockpit as the boat is started to ensure there are no alerts on the dashboard. | ▢ |
| Check the onboard ventilation vents | Assess the vents onboard to ensure they are not badly clogged or damaged. The vents are typically found on the walls below the deck in the galley or head area. | ▢ |
| Check the onboard plumbing | Check the onboard plumbing like the sinks, showers, toilets, etc., and ensure they are working properly. Turn on the sink and shower and flush the toilets to make sure there are no issues. | ▢ |
| Inspect the windows | Open all the windows onboard and ensure they open easily without any issues. Ensure there is no damage or cracks on the windows. | ▢ |
| Check for odors onboard | Check the entire boat for foul odors or any strange odors. These odors could be a sign of something damaged onboard and may require further inspection. | ▢ |
| Check all seals and joints onboard | Assess the condition of the seals and joints in areas like the boat deck, windows, hatches, and doors. | ▢ |
| Check the boarding ladder on the boat | Look at the boarding ladder and ensure there is no damage, rusting, or cracks on the ladder. | ▢ |
| Check the boat's legal documentation | Inspect the boat's legal documents including the boat title, maintenance records, warranty certificate (where applicable), parts receipts, and the bill of sale if making the purchase of the boat. | ▢ |
Get a printable boat inspection checklist pdf below.
Use this inspection checklist when assessing the condition of the used boat.
Some items on the inspection checklist can be ignored when they do not apply to the specific used boat being viewed.
The entire boat should be inspected before buying it including the stern, starboard, port and bow exterior and interior. The safety equipment, electronics, and legal documents should be inspected too.
3. Perform A Sea Trial
The third step of the used boat buying guide is to perform a sea trial.
A sea trial is taking the boat out on the water to test out its capabilities and ensure it is functioning properly with no issues. It is an important part of the boat-buying process.
To perform a sea trial:
- Run the engine at idle to assess whether there are any stuttering or engine issues. Running an engine at idle is achieved usually at 600 - 800 rpm
- Bring the boat to cruising speed, usually 5 knots, and steer the boat both port and starboard to ensure the steering system is operating properly
- Check the cockpit for any electronic warnings or alerts
- If it's a sailboat, check how the rigging system operates under sail
- Test the chart plotter/GPS electronics as you travel through the water to ensure it is functioning properly
- Increase the boat to full throttle where it is safe and assess how the engine reacts. A boat at full throttle is approximately 4,600 to 6,000 rpm. At full throttle, the boat motor should not be smoking heavily or making unusual noises
- Press the boat horn to ensure it works properly
- Listen carefully for any unusual sounds or noises onboard for the entire sea trial
Performing a sea trial on a boat will take approximately 25 minutes to complete. However, this timeframe can vary based on the size of the used boat.
The benefits of performing a sea trial are it lets a potential buyer test the speed, maneuverability, comfort, steering, and sounds, it will highlight potential issues that may have been missed in the initial inspection and it will allow a boat buyer the ability to assess the boat's seaworthiness.
One risk with performing a sea trial is the potential buyer may not be familiar with the operation of the boat they are interested in purchasing so they will not get the full benefits of the sea trial. To mitigate this risk, bring the current boat owner on the sea trial.
A buyer should note that if the boat seller does not want to do the sea trial, this is a major red flag and should signal to the buyer to avoid buying the specific boat.
Performing a sea trial is free to do.
4. Check The Boat Title & Lien History
The fourth step of the used boat buying guide is to check the boat title and lien history.
The boat's title is a legal document that proves ownership of a boat. It is necessary for the transfer of ownership from one person to another. The boat title includes information such as the make and model of the boat, the manufacturer, the Hull Identification Number (H.I.N.), the name and address of the owner, and any liens or encumbrances on the boat.
A boat title must be transferred whenever the boat is sold from the seller to the buyer.
A boat lien is a legal claim on a boat as security for a debt. It means that the boat cannot be sold or transferred without first paying off the debt.
To check the boat title of a used boat, simply ask the current owner for the boat title to assess it or get one posted to you from the U.S. Coast Guard.
To check the lien history of a used boat:
- Obtain an abstract of title: The US Coast Guard Abstracts of Title offers a comprehensive overview of a vessel's lien information including a detailed history of ownership and all current and resolved liens/debts. Obtaining a vessel's abstract of title through the U.S. Coast Guard can be done here. It costs $75 and takes 3 business days to complete
- Check the boat lien claims registry: Buyers can search the boat lien claims database from marinetitle to see if there are outstanding liens on a boat. This is free to do
- Check state vessel records: A used boat buyer can check the states vessel records of the state where the boat is registered to see if there are any outstanding liens on the boat. This costs $50 and takes up to 5 business days to complete
The benefits of checking the boat title and lien history are it will provide the buyer with legal proof of who owns the boat and it will ensure there are no outstanding debts on the boat that a new buyer may be liable for.
The most popular methods of checking a boat's lien history are to check the boat title for lien information and check the state vessel records for lien information.
5. Negotiate The Price
The fifth step of the used boat buying guide is to negotiate the price.
To negotiate the price of a used boat:
- Perform market research: A buyer should compare the price of the used boat they are interested in with similar vessels for sale on the market. This can enable them to get a lower price for the vessel when comparing it to other similar vessels on the market
- Point out defects or issues: If the boat has any defects or issues such as worn-out equipment, outdated electronics or damage to the hull, you can use these as leverage to negotiate a lower price. This can result in up to a 10% reduction in the price
- Be willing to walk away: A buyer should not be afraid to walk away if the seller is not willing to negotiate or if the price is too high. Showing that you are willing to walk away can sometimes encourage the seller to be more flexible with the price
- Be prepared to compromise on the price: Negotiation is a two-way street so be prepared to compromise on certain aspects of the sale such as the closing date, delivery options, or the inclusion of certain equipment or accessories
- Offer to pay fast (within a day): Offering to pay for the boat fast can sometimes sway a seller to offer a lower price for the boat. If you can pay quickly, make this clear in the negotiations as the seller may be more willing to sell at a cheaper price
The benefit of negotiating the price is a buyer may be able to save money, sometimes 10% and 20% of the original price of the boat.
Negotiating the price of a used boat can take anywhere from 10 minutes to a 3-5 days for more stubborn sellers.
6. Organize A Payment Method With The Seller
The sixth step of the used boat buying guide is to organize a payment method with the boat seller.
The three main payment methods when purchasing a used boat are:
- Paying with cash: Cash is used to pay for boats. However, this method should be avoided as it is riskier with less payment protection should an issue arise. Paying with cash has no fees
- Paying by bank transfer: Paying for a boat by transferring money from the buyer's bank to the seller's bank account is a common method of paying for the used boat. This is a safer option as it offers some buyer protection should an issue arise. Paying by bank transfer may have fees depending on the bank but it is typically under $5 in most cases
- Paying by bank draft: Paying by bank draft is the most common and popular method of buying a pre-owned boat. This payment method offers some protection for the buyer should a problem arise. Paying by bank draft will typically have fees of $2 to $5 but this will depend on the bank
Paying for a used boat with cash is instant whereas paying by bank transfer or a bank draft can take up to 5 business days to complete.
The benefit of paying for a used boat by bank transfer or bank draft is it leaves a receipt and proof of payment which can offer the buyer payment protection.
Paying with cash does not offer the buyer any payment protection or proof of purchase if something goes wrong.
The most popular payment method when paying for a pre-owned boat is paying by bank draft.
The payment methods that should be avoided when paying for a used boat are paying with cash or cryptocurrency as there is less protection for the buyer if a problem arises using these payment methods.
7. Draft A Bill Of Sale
The seventh step of the used boat buying guide is to draft a bill of sale.
A boat bill of sale is a legal document that records the change of ownership of a watercraft from the seller to the buyer. The boat bill of sale includes buyer, seller, boat and sale information with signatures from the buyer, seller, and a witness.
There are two ways of drafting a boat bill of sale which are filling in a bill of sale template or having a lawyer draft the bill of sale.
The most popular method of drafting a bill of sale is to have a lawyer draft the bill of sale for you.
The average cost to have a boat bill of sale drafted by a lawyer is $350. A bill of sale legal template to follow is free to use.
A benefits of a boat bill of sale are:
- Proof of ownership: A bill of sale provides written evidence of the transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer, which is important when establishing legal ownership and registering the boat.
- Protection: The bill of sale can help protect both the buyer and the seller in case of disputes or legal issues that may arise after the sale.
- Clarifies transaction details: The bill of sale can clarify important transaction details, such as the purchase price, payment method, and any warranties or guarantees that may have been provided.
- Compliance: A bill of sale may be required by law in some states or countries, making it necessary to have one to complete the transaction and comply with legal requirements.
- Peace of mind: Having a written agreement in place can provide peace of mind for both the buyer and the seller, knowing that all the necessary details of the transaction have been documented and agreed upon
Below is a sample bill of sale.
Bill Of Sale Example
Date: [insert date of sale]
Seller Information:
Name: [insert seller's name]
Address: [insert seller's address]
Phone: [insert seller's phone number]
Email: [insert seller's email address]
Buyer Information:
Name: [insert buyer's name]
Address: [insert buyer's address]
Phone: [insert buyer's phone number]
Email: [insert buyer's email address]
Boat Information:
Make: [insert boat make]
Model: [insert boat model]
Year: [insert boat year]
Hull I.D. number: [insert hull ID number]
Registration number: [insert boat registration number]
Sale Details:
Purchase price: [insert purchase price]
Payment method: [insert payment]
Payment terms: [insert payment terms]
Warranties/guarantees: [insert any warranties or guarantees provided]
I, the undersigned, seller, certify that the above information is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I further certify that I am the legal owner of the boat described above and have the authority to sell it.
I, the undersigned, buyer, acknowledge that I have carefully inspected the boat and accept it in its current condition. I further acknowledge that I understand and accept the terms of the sale as described above.
Seller's Signature: [insert seller's signature]
Buyer's Signature: [insert buyer's signature]
Witness Signature: [insert witness signature]
Note: This is just a sample bill of sale and may need to be modified to meet your specific needs or legal requirements. It's always recommended to consult with a lawyer or legal expert when drafting important legal documents like a bill of sale. This sample bill of sale should be used as a guide and not a legally binding document.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying A Used Boat
Below are the most commonly asked questions about buying a used boat.
How Do You Protect Against Fraud Or Scams When Buying A Used Boat?
To protect against fraud or scams when buying a used boat, ensure the seller has a valid boat title when assessing the boat, insist on performing a sea trial, check the boat lien history, thoroughly inspect the boat using a boat inspection checklist or by hiring a marine surveyor and only pay for the boat using a proof of payment method like a bank draft.
What Are Tips For Buying A Used Boat?
Tips for buying a used boat are:
- Always perform a sea trial to fully test the vessel
- Understand the maintenance requirements of the boat before purchasing it
- Check the lien & boat title
- Check the hull i.d.
- Check the boat motor serial number and compare it with details provided by the boat engine manufacturer
- Use a boat inspection checklist to thoroughly assess the boat prior to purchase
- Ensure there is a towing trailer capable of towing the boat available before making the purchase
- Do not pay with cash
- Only purchase a boat you are capable of operating
- Check similar boats for sale to compare prices and understand what is the true retail value of the used boat
- Understand where the boat will be stored before buying it and ensure there is sufficient storage space
What Are The Benefits Of Buying A Used Boat?
The benefits of buying a used boat are:
- Cost savings: Buyers can find much cheaper used boats compared to new ones which will help them to save money. Savings can range from 20% to 60% compared to a brand-new price
- Large depreciation avoided: New boats typically experience a significant drop in value in the first few years of ownership. Buying a used boat can help you avoid this initial period of rapid depreciation
- Established resale value: Used boats often have an established resale value which makes it easier to determine the value of your boat if you decide to sell it in the future
What Are The Risks Of Buying A Used Boat?
The risks of buying a used boat are:
- Getting scammed: Buyers have a risk of being scammed. While there are ways to reduce the risk of getting scammed, certain sellers may still try to scam the buyer. Buyers should be aware of this and prepare to mitigate the risk by following the instructions in this article
- Paying too much for a boat: New buyers may not understand the true retail value of a pre-owned boat. Due to this, new buyers may overpay for the boat
- Buying a damaged boat: New buyers may not find damage when performing the initial inspection and end up with a used boat with lots of damage. If a buyer is not confident in their inspection abilities, it is recommended to hire a professional marine surveyor to help mitigate this risk
- Buying a boat you are not capable of operating: Some buyers are very enthusiastic to get a new boat. They may purchase a boat they are not capable of operating due to a lack of boating skills. To mitigate this risk, perform a sea trial prior to purchasing to see how good you are at operating it
What Should Be Avoided When Buying A Used Boat?
When buying a used boat, avoid:
- Paying with cash: Buyers should avoid paying the seller with cash as there is little protection for the buyer with this payment method
- Buying a boat without a sea trial: Buyers should avoid buying a used boat without doing a sea trial. A sea trial can identify potential issues that may be missed from visual inspections
- Buying the boat without the boat title: A boat buyer should avoid paying for the boat without seeing and having the boat title transferred to them. The boat title is a legal document that confirms the buyer to be the legal owner of the vessel
- Buying a boat in poor condition: A boat buyer should avoid buying a used boat in poor condition as it can cost a substantial amount of money to repair the boat
- Buying a boat without knowing where to store it: A boat buyer should avoid buying a boat before knowing exactly where to store it
- Paying without seeing the boat in person: A boat buyer should avoid paying for a boat without seeing it in person as the pictures and the boat listing can be fake
What Questions Should A Buyer Ask The Seller When Buying A Used Boat?
The questions a buyer should ask the boat seller are:
- What are the costs of repairing the boat?
- What ongoing maintenance and upkeep will the boat require?
- What is the cost of filling the boat with fuel?
- How long have you owned the boat?
- What is your preferred payment method?
- How many hours are on the engine?
- Has there been any major damage on the boat in the past?
- Has the boat been involved in any accidents in the past?
- Are there any liens on the boat?
- Can I see the boat title?
- What's the boat's overall condition?
- What equipment and accessories are included with the boat?
- What is the boat's maximum speed and cruising speed?
- Is the boat still under warranty, and if so, what is covered?
- What is the boat's fuel consumption rate and tank capacity?
- How many hours has the boat been used and how was it typically used?
- What type of maintenance and repairs have been done on the boat and when were they done?
- Can I see the repair receipts?
- What is the storage/mooring cost of this boat?
- Are there any reoccurring problems that arise with this boat?
Is It Safe To Buy A Used Boat From A Private Seller?
It is safe to purchase a used boat from a private seller provided the buyer thoroughly inspects the vessel, checks the boat title and lien history, has a proper bill of sale, and uses a safe payment method like bank transfers or bank drafts.
How Do You Pay For A Used Boat Safely?
To pay for a used boat safely, pay through a bank transfer or bank draft. Paying by bank transfer or bank drafts leaves a record of the payment which can be used if a problem arises in the future.
How Long Does It Take To Buy A Used Boat?
Buying a used boat takes from 1 week to 1 month to complete for most boat purchases. However, this timeframe will vary based on the availability of the money needed to make the purchase, the payment method used, and the location of the boat.
What Are The Costs Associated With Buying A Used Boat?
The costs associated with buying a pre-owned boat include the cost to the boat itself, the fees for hiring a marine surveyor (where applicable) which is approximately $15 to $25 per foot, banking fees for transferring money from the buyer to the seller bank account which is typically 0.5% to 1% of the purchase price and potential legal fees for drafting a bill of sale and transferring the boat title which is approximately $350.
If the boat is purchased through a boat broker, there will also be boat broker fees which can range from 5% to 10% of the boat's selling price.
What Are The Legal Considerations To Be Aware Of When Buying A Used Boat?
The legal considerations to be aware of when buying a used boat are the bill of sale document which acts as a legally binding document of proof of transfer from the seller to the buyer, the boat title document which highlights the current legal owner information, and boat tax obligations when owning a boat which will vary from state to state.
What Are Scams To Be Aware Of When Buying A Used Boat?
Common scams to be aware of when buying a pre-owned boat are:
- Online sales scams: Be cautious when purchasing a boat online. Scammers can create fake listings using pictures and information of a legitimate boat and offer it at an attractive price. They may request payment through untraceable methods or ask for a down payment before disappearing with the money. Never buy a boat without seeing it in person
- Boat title scams: Some sellers may offer a boat with no title or a fake or forged title. Without a valid title, it can be difficult to prove ownership, register the boat, or get marine insurance. Check the boat title with the U.S. Coast Guard to ensure it is legitimate
- Stolen boat scams: It's possible that the boat being sold is stolen. The seller may not have legitimate proof of ownership or may be trying to sell a boat that has been reported stolen
- Damaged boat scams: Scammers may try to hide the damage of a boat or misrepresent its condition in order to sell it for a higher price. They may conceal defects, provide false information about the boat's history or maintenance records or mislead buyers in other ways
What Are The Most Popular Type Of Used Boats To Buy?
The most popular type of used boats to buy are sailboats, pontoons, and motorboats.
What Are The Least Popular Tpye Of Used Boats To Buy?
The least popular type of used boats to buy are barges and houseboats.