Protocol For Buying From A Private Individual

[james 14]

I'm in the market for a used bass boat and whatever I end up buying I'm going to want it to have it checked out buy a local marine shop to make sure there are no surprises. What would be a recommended protocol for protecting myself and ensuring protection for the seller so they're willing to leave their boat somewhere? I don't want to pay for something only to have it checked out and it be a POS and, likewise, I'm not sure I'd want to hand my boat over to someone who hasn't payed me for it yet. I thought about paying a deposit or having the seller drop it off at the shop where I've already pre-paid for the service.

I've never owned a anything other than an aluminum jon so I'm not 100% what to check for. I know to check compression, transom, floor, hull and, of course, do a water test but beyond that I'm not completely sure. Is it even necessary to take it to a shop? I read somewhere I could actually buy a tester to check compression myself.

[J Francho]

I don't want to pay for something only to have it checked out and it be a POS and, likewise, I'm not sure I'd want to hand my boat over to someone who hasn't payed me for it yet.

 

You're paying for peace of mind that the boat is right.  If it isn't, not your problem, you're only out the money for a compression test and inspection.  Anyone not willing to allow this isn't worth buying from.  Imagine, not being able to test drive and inspect a used car.

[Jig Man]

If I were buying a used boat, I'd ask the seller for a signed document from a reputable service center that stated everything had been checked out and passed.  If he wants to get the most bang for his buck he has already done it and can provide you with the paperwork.

[Fishin24/7]

I would meet him at a reputable boat shop of your choice and have them check it out for you. You will probably have to pay for it and if he has a problem taking it to a reputable shop, don't buy it. The money spent will probably be worth it the long run, especially if the boat is several years old.

[Fishin24/7]

Don't forget to take it on a test run and check trolling motor, electronics, live well, etc.

[Marty]

I agree with 24/7. Have him take it to a shop of your choice. He doesn't have to turn his boat over to a stranger and you get a shop you can trust.

[ClackerBuzz]

great advice.  i wouldn't mind agreeing on a final price up front.  "can we agree on a price now?  if it passes inspection and a test drive on the lake will you take $5,xxx? whats ur bottom line?". it lets him know ur serious buyer and he's got to back his words via a mechanic that it's a good boat. the transaction is less stressful and you can negotiate any repairs the mechanic might recommend from that starting point.

[Shewillbemine]

great advice.  i wouldn't mind agreeing on a final price up front.  "can we agree on a price now?  if it passes inspection and a test drive on the lake will you take $5,xxx? whats ur bottom line?". it lets him know ur serious buyer and he's got to back his words via a mechanic that it's a good boat. the transaction is less stressful and you can negotiate any repairs the mechanic might recommend from that starting point.

 

This is very good advice. I have done this on all private party car purchases I've made. 

[ClackerBuzz]

i don't know how to buy a boat or a bulldozer so if i was going to buy i would make sure to get one that was less that 5yrs old. chances are its going to be more mechanically sound.  ie the 'T4000 model' i want/can afford is 8yrs old.  i'd settle for the T3000 model that was 3yrs old