Why Use A Boat Broker When Selling A Boat

TOP REASONS TO USE A BOAT BROKER!

Whether you are deciding to step up to a bigger boat, or simply sell your existing, the process of selling a boat can quickly become daunting. Where do I list to get maximum exposure? How do I determine the right price? What paperwork is necessary for selling my boat? How will I make the time to sell my boat as most boat shopping occurs on the weekends and I don’t want to be tied down on my time off? How do I handle the negotiation process?

This is where hiring a boat broker to list your boat removes the stress associated with the process. Besides having an industry expert instantly on your team, here are seven reasons why hiring a broker is the right choice:

1. CONNECTIONS WITHIN THE INDUSTRY

Boat brokers are experts in the industry and have made connections regarding every aspect of the selling process. Whether you need your boat detailed, reupholstered, moved, etc…your broker will know the best services in your local area. They will also know what other brokers have on the market and can quickly find a buyer or find a trade for your boat.

2. MARKETING EXPERTISE

While most private sellers know of only a few sites to list their boat such as Facebook, your yacht broker will list your boat on a multitude of sites and aggressively market your boat. As soon as you decide to list, your broker will professionally market your boat on their private site, a multitude of specific forums and brokerage channels, and will also be able to personally sell your boat over the phone or in person. Having your boat in as many strategic locations as possible will result in finding the right buyer quickly.

3. LISTING ACCESS ON MARINE SITES

Boats and Outboards, the industry standard for selling boats, gives priority to eligible boat brokerage firms and dealerships representing multiple boats for sale on behalf of an owner/seller”. Your broker will be able to utilise this exclusive tool in order to get your boat in front of the right eyes. These marine sites are also one of the first places buyers look when searching for a boat so it is crucial for your boat to be listed here.

4. KNOWLEDGE OF WHAT MAKES A BOAT SELL

A broker is constantly studying the market and knows what makes a boat move fast and what doesn’t. The broker will know what to mention in a listing in order to make your boat shine and can recommend any repairs or upgrades, which would improve the chances of a fair price.

5. DEDICATED TIME TO SELL YOUR BOAT

Constantly listing your boat online, taking calls from brokers, dealing with tire-kickers…it all takes time! A broker will take care of incoming calls, and offers, and negotiate deals on your behalf. This removes any stress from the sale and offers peace of mind knowing you have someone constantly working with you towards your goal.

6. NEGOTIATION STRATEGY TO KEEP THINGS MOVING

Brokers have experience in negotiating a deal and will often work with connections in order to maximise an offer. The broker also works as a middleman and can successfully keep negotiations moving smoothly between buyer and seller. Your broker is an expert in boats and will be able to know the difference between a good deal and a shady one.

7. CLOSING ARRANGEMENTS

Bills of sale, title transfer, closing agreements, and other required paperwork can quickly overwhelm a seller. This is where your broker will come in and make it a painless process. Quick access and know-how allow your broker to close a deal on your boat and help you move on to your next one!

Using a broker is a great way to utilise an expert in the industry in order to sell your boat. Whether it is their connections, knowledge of the industry, or negotiating strategies you are looking for, a broker will make selling your boat an easy process. After all…selling your boat should be exciting!

In brief a broker will:

Advertise your boat. Brokers should list your boat on the main marine websites including boatsandoutboards and advertise in other places where appropriate. Find out what their marketing plan is and get it in writing.
Price your boat realistically. Brokers have access to recent sale prices and know a good starting point.
Prescreen responses to advertising. This will avoid most tire kickers. (Propeller Spinners)
Show your boat to prospective buyers. This will save you from wasting time with buyers who don’t show up.
Communicate all offers from potential buyers to you.
Negotiate the selling price. This is where brokers can really earn their money.
Draw up sales agreements and accept deposits. Many brokers can do this electronically over computers, tablets, and even smartphones.
Arrange for sea trials and schedule surveys.
Coordinate closing.
Transfer funds to you. Now you can start shopping for your next boat.