MAKING THE DEAL

I think the 10% is customary when there is a broker because that ensures the broker gets his cut. I don't think it has anything to do with making sure you're a serious buyer - it's to cover the broker in case the seller reneges.
 
So Fishie, you go down to see a broker who happens to operate at a dock to look at a boat for sale, you call first for an appointment, the boat is docked in the water, and you ask; "how does it ride? Never been on this model before". Are you saying the broker will not say, "hey, it rides great, let's go out for a ride and you can find out yourself, to try to get a sale?

Especially in these times (?)

Let's assume you don't start off by saying you have been on this model before and like the ride - I'm sure the broker will ask if you have.

But instead, you have to make an offer, negotiate the price, and turn over a 10% check to get a ride?

If so, the business of brokering is rediculous.

If it was in March on Lonhg Island with snow on the ground and the boat was shrink wrapped in the dry dock, I'd still expect the offer by the dealer to take it out, otherwise boat should not be shown as offered for sale, and I'd say;

"here's my number, call me when you want to sell this boat"

Rediculous. I can tell you one thing, I'd be working hard as a broker selling more boats then some of these clown acts.
 
BobP said:
Have you seen the title or registration yet?
Is the boat HIN same as registration reads, date of manuf. etc.?
Any liens on it?
Have you ever been on the water on this model boat before?

You ask the broker who to make out check to, usually it's the brokerage or dealer, not owner.

What is your plan if there is a lien on the boat?
What is your plan if you don't like the ride?
Do you intend to have motors checked out by Yamaha mechanic? Remember, surveyors don't do motors.
If there are any electronics involved, be sure they are listed and descibed in bill of sale, same goes for S/Ns of motors in bill of sale. S/Ns must be listed.

Good luck.

I would take this advice, look your not being a jerk, this is a tough market, money is hard to come by and you are the rarest of specimens...A BUYER! Make sure the deal is in your favor, while fair.
 
I have never and mean NEVER put a deposit down to test drive a boat, new or used. If you deal with a salesman, he wants to sell the boat and make his commision, so he should take you out(the boat is in the water anyway), if you deal with the seller offer him 100 bucks for gas money and let him take you out, 90 % will not take the money and take you out any way if he really wants to sell the boat, if he says deposit first, the only thing i would do is( if i really like the boat) walk in to him with a regular check of 1000 bucks, let him take you out, if you like the boat all is fine if not ask for your check back, if he does not give you the check, call your bank and put a stop payment, you can do the same with a credit card, but NEVER with a certified check. Just my 2 pennies worth. Good luck.
 
BobP said:
So Fishie, you go down to see a broker who happens to operate at a dock to look at a boat for sale, you call first for an appointment, the boat is docked in the water, and you ask; "how does it ride? Never been on this model before". Are you saying the broker will not say, "hey, it rides great, let's go out for a ride and you can find out yourself, to try to get a sale?

No, I'm not defending brokers - I think some are scum, some are incompetent and some are very good at matching a buyer with a boat. If he/she is a good salesperson, the potential buyer will be sized up properly and if serious the ride would be offered.

BobP said:
Especially in these times (?)
Anytime is the right time to make a sale and treat a potential client properly . . . . . . .

BobP said:
Let's assume you don't start off by saying you have been on this model before and like the ride - I'm sure the broker will ask if you have.

I would certainly hope so!

BobP said:
But instead, you have to make an offer, negotiate the price, and turn over a 10% check to get a ride?

As I said above I think the 10% is a scheme for the broker to ensure his cut - has nothing really to do with the ride or the negotiations

BobP said:
If so, the business of brokering is rediculous.

Mostly so

BobP said:
If it was in March on Lonhg Island with snow on the ground and the boat was shrink wrapped in the dry dock, I'd still expect the offer by the dealer to take it out, otherwise boat should not be shown as offered for sale, and I'd say;

"here's my number, call me when you want to sell this boat"

I agree

BobP said:
Rediculous. I can tell you one thing, I'd be working hard as a broker selling more boats then some of these clown acts.

Absolutely. Even if you didn't sell this boat you now have a potential buyer to call when the next boat is available. All about building up your clientele by treating people properly
 
NEM, Fishie1, and BobP selling used Gradys!

What a team.

POE and Spellmens watch out, here we come!