Value Depreciation

[Rusty]

I am looking for help from anyone who has calculated an approximate depreciation curve for a new Hunter boat. I am comparing for purchase two comparably equipped boats ('93 H28 and a '00 H290) with about a $20,000 price difference. I would like to hold onto this boat for 4-6 years, then upgrade. I looked through the 1999 N.A.D.A. Consumer Marine Appraisal Guide for comparisons, but Hunter doesn't seem to stick with a design for more than a few years. I am trying to estimate the avg annual % depreciation to determine my best long-term value.Thanks,Rusty

 

[Jim Flowers]

Depreciation Thoughts

I did a survey when I bought my 37C and came up with about 10 boats. Around 10 years old, the rate was about $3K per year for a $50K boat if memory serves. If it's like car's then the rate is much higher in the early years and it looks like you're comparing the value of a 5 year old to a 12 year old vs investing $20K for 5 years. If it's economics the older boat wins, hands down. If it's not, buy the one that really excites you. Can two boats really be "equivalent"?