MSRP vs Invoice on New Boats

fla2az

Recruit
Joined
Nov 15, 2003
Messages
1
First timer here and I've read almost all of the forums related to first timers, but still have a question! Is there such thing as below MSRP, like invoice in the Boat business? I know when I purchased new cars, I'm able to buy them much below MSRP! Thanks for the information and I'm looking forward to adding to the forum soon, as soon as I'm able to make the decision on what to buy and begin learning the "Boating Life" :confused: fla2az@yahoo.com
 

roscoe

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Oct 30, 2002
Messages
21,846
Re: MSRP vs Invoice on New Boats

What kind of boat are we talking about?<br />$1000 rowboat?<br />$10,000?<br />$30,000?<br /><br />There is always room for negotiating.<br />The more expensive the rig, the more room.<br />Competition between dealers always helps.<br /><br />No hard and fast rules here.<br />No one to give you numbers like there is with cars.<br />You are pretty much on your own.<br />When you hit the boat shows this winter, ask about discounted 2002 or 2003 model they may have sitting around.<br />And slight changes in models of boats may mean thousands of $ difference in the price.<br /><br />And unless you are buying an expensive custom built boat, do not pay or sign anything until you see the actual boat you are buying, AND take it for a test ride if possible. This can save you lots of troubles. Walk out the door if the dealer says they have to have a deposit or a signed contract.<br /><br />There are lots of boat dealers out there, and they have had a couple tough years trying to sell boats. They should be very accomidating to you.
 

Old Jarhead

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Sep 26, 2003
Messages
190
Re: MSRP vs Invoice on New Boats

fla2az;<br /><br />MSRP is exactly that " Manufactures SUGGESTED retail price".<br /><br />Case in point... Last week I bought a new Boston Whaler 130 Sport. I paid over 20% below MGRP. Before that was a 160 Dauntless Boston Whaler @ around 15% below MSRP.<br /><br />Shop around and work your best deal. Ask for advice on the price here before committing and you'll do fine. :)
 

BillP

Captain
Joined
Aug 10, 2002
Messages
3,290
Re: MSRP vs Invoice on New Boats

I don't know what it is today but a few years ago the dealer cost for almost every "general" production type outboard hull and franchised motor was 25% under suggested retail. Accessories were 35% to 100% under suggested retail. <br /><br />I call the factory and ask what their suggested list is before going to the dealer. The last factory I called was Cape Horn and they wouldn't tell me a list price and said they let the dealers set it. This is the way they can give you a "huge" discount off an inflated list to make it look like you got a great deal. Better do a lot of homework if buying one like this or you will be spending more than necessary.
 
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