Thinking Of Selling Your
Boat?
Boats in “Bristol” condition
always seem to sell faster! There are two main categories by which
a buyer will judge your boat: Cosmetics and Mechanics. Before you
bring the potential buyer aboard, consider these points.
COSMETIC:
-
All exterior surfaces must be clean and shiny.
Fiberglass and metal should sparkle. Don’t forget the windows,
port lights or hatches; mineral deposits on glass look dingy!
-
Lay a fresh coat of Varnish on bright work, and
clean and oil teak.
-
Enclosures and canvas should be in good shape.
Damaged goods should be repaired, replaced or removed.
-
Hoist new flags and pennants. Rags are the sign
of a poorly regarded boat.
-
Shampoo the carpets and have drapes, bunk covers
and upholstery cleaned.
-
Replace worn out accessories.
“Remember… Most Buyers can’t picture what a boat could look like.” Bill Orr - President of
FMI
“One customer had a ratty, salt-stained
rug in the salon, he was urged to update the flooring, but was choosing
the “cheaper” alternative. After three potential buyers
came and viewed the vessel with no interest in buying, the owner
agreed to replace the old carpet. The day after replacing the carpet
for less than $100.00, the first person to board the boat bought
it! Chances are the boat would have sold sooner if the seller had
followed the advice from his broker to begin with. Often
a few dollars spent can make all the difference in your sale!” - A Seattle
Yacht Brokerage Firm
-
Clear out all unnecessary
clutter and gear. If it’s not included in the sell, get
it off the boat!
- Clean drawers and storage bins. Place a scented clothes dryer sheet
in lockers to remove state odors.
- The Bilge must be spotless.
Use oil absorbent pads under the machinery.
- Clean prime and pain the engines and
generator. Pump out the shower sump to eliminate odors.
- Clean out debris in hatch bindings and scuppers.
- A clean bottom will make the boat perform better during sea trials.
- Once the boat has been detailed, maintain with weekly
washes until sold
