A couple of months ago I posted to request the names of organizations that would accept a boat donation. We were not using the boat and had it listed with a broker at below market value for 8 months. We had received zero serious inquiries. We no longer wanted to absorb the cost associated with owning a boat. I received several responses listing organizations that would accept boat donations. I also received 2 responses suggesting I contact brokers that they identified who would list on E bay. I contacted one broker in Annapolis who did not return my calls and Yachtsmart in Norfolk who immediately responded. End of story I received my check yesterday. The buyer got a good deal, I received more than I expected and Yachtsmart did a great job for what I consider to be a reasonable fee.
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Brokers
A couple of years ago I was interested in purchasing a particular model with cash in hand. I contacted 5 brokers who had this model listed on Yachtworld via E-mail. I received one response and after a lengthy conversation with the broker, it was apparent the broker had really embellished the condition of the boat. He acted as though I was wasting his time since I lived in the midwest. I eventually found a nice boat from a private party and had the boat shipped. I really wonder how much effort some brokers put in for their client? If I could I would have found the sellers and advised them that they were not well represented.
A couple of years ago I was interested in purchasing a particular model with cash in hand. I contacted 5 brokers who had this model listed on Yachtworld via E-mail. I received one response and after a lengthy conversation with the broker, it was apparent the broker had really embellished the condition of the boat. He acted as though I was wasting his time since I lived in the midwest. I eventually found a nice boat from a private party and had the boat shipped. I really wonder how much effort some brokers put in for their client? If I could I would have found the sellers and advised them that they were not well represented.
Re: Brokers
JD...I agree...I had little luck with brokers. I looked at two other 9.2A's...both of which are probably STILL on Yachtworld. One was covered in gelcoat pimples...wasted a half day on that trip. The other had obviously been on the hard for years and the fixed ports had been improperly installed and had popped off so she was essentially open to the elements. Very nice video though! I must say that I did run into one pretty honest broker down in Bristol RI though.
JD...I agree...I had little luck with brokers. I looked at two other 9.2A's...both of which are probably STILL on Yachtworld. One was covered in gelcoat pimples...wasted a half day on that trip. The other had obviously been on the hard for years and the fixed ports had been improperly installed and had popped off so she was essentially open to the elements. Very nice video though! I must say that I did run into one pretty honest broker down in Bristol RI though.
Brokerages
Yacht brokerages are like car salesman - no disrespect intended. Some will work extraordinarily hard for you and some are only out to make a buck for themselves. The advantage of a reputable broker is getting your boat listed on an MLS and the personal assistance. The MLS offers MUCH wider exposure than a FSBO. It often results in a greater sales price and is more often than not worth the commission, IMHO. A good broker will tell you the pros and cons up front and help you make a decision that is right for YOU. I've used YachtSmart to buy and then sell our boat and have nothing but praise for them. They have earned their good reputation. I'm glad this poster has had a similiar good experience!
Yacht brokerages are like car salesman - no disrespect intended. Some will work extraordinarily hard for you and some are only out to make a buck for themselves. The advantage of a reputable broker is getting your boat listed on an MLS and the personal assistance. The MLS offers MUCH wider exposure than a FSBO. It often results in a greater sales price and is more often than not worth the commission, IMHO. A good broker will tell you the pros and cons up front and help you make a decision that is right for YOU. I've used YachtSmart to buy and then sell our boat and have nothing but praise for them. They have earned their good reputation. I'm glad this poster has had a similiar good experience!
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