Questions on used boat purchase...

[BlackRocket]

I am interested in purchasing a used express cruiser no older than 10 years and under $25,000. I have been looking online and there seems to be a lot to consider and have a number of questions, so here it goes.

How important is it to find a freshwater only boat?

Besides overall condition and noticeable damage what else should one look for?

Generally speaking, how long does an express cruiser need to be in order to have an enclosed head?

What brand is recommended between, Chaparral, Crownline, Regal, Sea Ray, Wellcraft, etc...I like the lines and interior design of the Chaparral's the best.

Where is the best place to find a good deal? Are there any auction sites that one can get a good deal on a boat if willing to travel?

Thanks!

 

[erie_guy]

Re: Questions on used boat purchase...

Black Rocket,

I purchased a Repo boat in 2000 from a firm in TX and had it surveyed and shipped to Ohio. For the last 10 years I have enjoyed our purchase without a problem. I see they are still in business and have several boats that may fit your needs.

Go to their website and take a look.

http://www.americanyachtsales.com/

I saw they had a 2007 23' Monterey and a 2005 22' Crownline for your target price. These are only asking prices - so you can probably get them for significantly less. I did ! !

The boat I got (see avitar) is a 32' chris craft xpress. and cost significantly more than you want to spend. It was a Minnasota boat repod and moved to Texas for sale by American Yach Sales. Just make sure you locate a surveyer in the Houston Tx area to give you a report on the boat. I can give you the name of the surveyor we used but I am not sure he is still active.

I believe most express boats 24' and larger would have enclosed heads. The increased value of a fresh water boat over a saltwater boat is about 20%. It is probably worth the difference because of engine issues, greater corrosion, and weathering of interiors. Often salt water (FL, SC, ect) boats are used all year around and get much more use than fresh water boats (6 months / year) in the north.

erie_guy
Port Clinton, OH

 

[Biged007]

Re: Questions on used boat purchase...

As I posted before you may want to visit some of the local marinas you would be amazed at some of the unadvertised deals you can find

 

[jonesg]

Re: Questions on used boat purchase...

Read some reviews by a surveyor.
http://www.yachtsurvey.com/boatreviews/indexboatreview.htm