Help - I need to figure out the value of my fathers boat???

prave

Recruit
Joined
Aug 20, 2012
Messages
2
Islander.jpg

My father passed away almost a month ago and we are trying to settle/sell his estate items, including this Islander, but I have no idea how to figure what the value is to turn into the Clerk of Court. Here's what I know:

* It is a 17 foot "Islander" by "MFJ"
* Center Console
* Fiberglass bottom
* I am pretty sure it was made in 1994

I attached a picture, which I apologize for not being hugely effective because of the cover, but it is the best I have. Can anyone help?!
 

Campylobacter

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 4, 2007
Messages
503
Re: Help - I need to figure out the value of my fathers boat???

Boat prices fluctuate wildly based on time of year, location, and most importantly, condition.

Late summer/fall is the worst time to sell a boat, so thats going to count against you (unless you are in Florida, please let us know).

As to condition, having it covered well is a good sign, but people on the internet can't really tell much unless you give them lots of pictures. The condition, size, and manufacturer of the motor will also affect value.
 

prave

Recruit
Joined
Aug 20, 2012
Messages
2
Re: Help - I need to figure out the value of my fathers boat???

Lets say everything is in poor condition. Why would you think then?

Also, is MFJ the boat manufacturer? Do you know the full name? Are they still in business?

Thanks again!
 

louiefl

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Apr 11, 2012
Messages
119
Re: Help - I need to figure out the value of my fathers boat???

http://raleigh.craigslist.org/boa/3182278569.html

Here is what appears to be the same boat asking $4700 in NC. In Florida this boat would fetch maybe $4k if it was in good shape with everything working.

Sorry to hear about your dad, going through everything can be tough.
 

halfmoa

Ensign
Joined
Aug 19, 2011
Messages
955
Re: Help - I need to figure out the value of my fathers boat???

Lets say everything is in poor condition. Why would you think then?

Also, is MFJ the boat manufacturer? Do you know the full name? Are they still in business?

Thanks again!

If everything was in poor condition....well, zero dollars. There's lots of boats on Craigslist for free that are completely junk. Even with the cover on I'm fairly certain that's not the case with your boat. There's TONS of variables involved.

And no, the NADA price isn't even remotely close to it's true value.
 

Augoose

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Mar 21, 2010
Messages
1,245
Re: Help - I need to figure out the value of my fathers boat???

I am as well very sorry to hear of your loss.
Have you tried www.nadaguides.com?
 

Jeep Man

Commander
Joined
Oct 17, 2008
Messages
2,803
Re: Help - I need to figure out the value of my fathers boat???

Need to know what State your in, what's on it for a motor, was it left covered or uncovered most of the time, approximate hours on the motor and did it have regular maintenance. Let us know. A picture of the interior would really help. Sorry about your Dad.
 

81_chapparel194

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Aug 7, 2012
Messages
341
Re: Help - I need to figure out the value of my fathers boat???

why not just keep it for yourself as a keepsake and a new family hobby??? just curious.. i also understand the constant seeing it is a constant reminder of the loss you are going thru..
 

Bob_VT

Moderator & Unofficial iBoats Historian
Staff member
Joined
May 19, 2001
Messages
26,111
Re: Help - I need to figure out the value of my fathers boat???


1994 Islander/M.F.I.

170 CENTER CONSOLE


PricingSuggested List PriceLow
Retail
Average Retail
Base Price:$5,090$1,280$1,450
Options: (add options)
TOTAL PRICE$5,090$1,280$1,450
Don't make a $1,450 mistake, get a Boat History Report before you buy!


Not counting the motor and trailer.
 

Home Cookin'

Fleet Admiral
Joined
May 26, 2009
Messages
9,715
Re: Help - I need to figure out the value of my fathers boat???

first you don't say if there is a motor or if it is in running condition

second evaluation for estate purposes is a different drill than selling or insuring it. go low. Auction value

third, see if your state requires seperate treatment for 'vehicles' (Trailer)

finally, don't use nada for old boats--unless the clerk wants to see what you used for valuation.

go to the clerk's office, ask for probate, and make friends with the oldest person working there.
 
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