If this is an inappropriate topic I appologize in advance. I have been retired due to a disablility for some time now. I am going nuts. Does anyone knows how I go about joining the darkside and becoming a yacht broker? Please e-mail me if you know what it takes to become a yacht broker in the state of Maryland or just what being a broker enatils in general. Again if I'm totally out of line posting this here I appologize.
*zzz Yacht Brokers
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Ask a broker?
Best way to find out is to call a broker and ask them. There was an article (in Cruising World ?) a while back about a state that was considering licensing yacht designer or making them pass a test to become certified, but don't think that applies to brokers yet. Calling around will also provide an opportunity to see if they need someone to help them out. Now is a good time to get going, because spring outfitting is getting into gear. It helps to be familiar with a variety of different boats and be knowledgable about their varying characteristics. (e.g. handling, construction, amenities and resale values) Different outfits focus on different areas as well. Some will be pushing one line of new boats, and that's all you need to know. Others will deal mainly with used boats, but will have one from every builder. I found it a VERY frustrating business to be in because the days you'd like to be out sailing (especially weekends) you have to be in tending the phones and showing boats. It's also a very economy-sensitive business, and it can be difficult to earn much of a living from it unless things are booming.
Best way to find out is to call a broker and ask them. There was an article (in Cruising World ?) a while back about a state that was considering licensing yacht designer or making them pass a test to become certified, but don't think that applies to brokers yet. Calling around will also provide an opportunity to see if they need someone to help them out. Now is a good time to get going, because spring outfitting is getting into gear. It helps to be familiar with a variety of different boats and be knowledgable about their varying characteristics. (e.g. handling, construction, amenities and resale values) Different outfits focus on different areas as well. Some will be pushing one line of new boats, and that's all you need to know. Others will deal mainly with used boats, but will have one from every builder. I found it a VERY frustrating business to be in because the days you'd like to be out sailing (especially weekends) you have to be in tending the phones and showing boats. It's also a very economy-sensitive business, and it can be difficult to earn much of a living from it unless things are booming.
no expert by ANY means but...
I think in Florida you have to work under a state certified/licensed broker for a certain amount of time before you can be put out on your own. I think there is some type of bond you had to secure with the state managing the funds. Again, all this is just tid bits I've heard, I truly don't know for sure. I do agree that asking a broker is a good place to start since clearly I have no sure idea. On the other hand, being a broker isn't the dark side. I didn't want to use one for the sale of my last yacht but finally broke down and called one. What a fantastic way to deal with the selling of a vessel. I could have slapped half the people jumping on my beautiful boat in cowboy boots. The broker dealt with these people and finally sold the boat for a price that was fair. Yeah, they cost money but they saved my sanity and probably a couple of arrests as well.
I think in Florida you have to work under a state certified/licensed broker for a certain amount of time before you can be put out on your own. I think there is some type of bond you had to secure with the state managing the funds. Again, all this is just tid bits I've heard, I truly don't know for sure. I do agree that asking a broker is a good place to start since clearly I have no sure idea. On the other hand, being a broker isn't the dark side. I didn't want to use one for the sale of my last yacht but finally broke down and called one. What a fantastic way to deal with the selling of a vessel. I could have slapped half the people jumping on my beautiful boat in cowboy boots. The broker dealt with these people and finally sold the boat for a price that was fair. Yeah, they cost money but they saved my sanity and probably a couple of arrests as well.
Internet
In addition to this group, how about a Google search on your subject? Should give you lost of good info, including gov't. requirements. Good luck, what a great way to get back into it. All the best.
In addition to this group, how about a Google search on your subject? Should give you lost of good info, including gov't. requirements. Good luck, what a great way to get back into it. All the best.
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