Re: Just need a little help
Boat value is somewhat subjective. In reality value is the perception of the buyer, not the seller. In other words, something is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. I find a lot of buyers and sellers get caught up in the "Well, new it is (was) worth 'x'. Which is an absolutely true statement, if what you were selling is new. The cost to replace something doesn't dictate the cost of the item (particularly used) when being sold. I also find that sellers have emotional ties to items. A boat that is worth $300 is worth a lot more to the loved one of the person who owned it. Memories of fishing with dad or grandpa. A woman with fond memories of seeing the happiness the boat brought her husband over the 20 years he used it. This is particularly the case when the previous owner and said loved one is no longer with us.
I have no idea if this is the case with your boat, nor does it really matter. (Translation, no need to get into a tear jerking story about the glories of days gone by).
Take a look at a few new aluminum boats of same size, then consider depreciation over time and wear and tear. Take a look at what similar boats are selling for of the same vintage. you can hang your hat on $1,500 all day long, but I think the foot traffic is going to be light at that number.
