Used Boat Buying Guide

Shopping for a used boat can seem overwhelming. How do you make sure that you get a great deal and don't end up with excessive repairs down the road?

Here at Thayer's Marine, we strive to make your life easier. We gathered up the following used boat buying tips. For more advice or to shop for used boats for sale, visit our dealership. We are located in Norwich, Connecticut.

Narrow the Search

There is a seemingly unending number of used boats for sale at marine dealerships. It's impossible to consider every option, which is where narrowing the search comes into play.

1. Set a Budget

Used boats come at much lower asking prices than their new counterparts. But there is still a big range of price points.

Think about how much you want to spend on a used boat. This will instantly eliminate a large number of models from your search!

2. Research the Models

Some used boats will be a better fit for your family than others. One helpful resource in the search process is the marine dealer. Tell them about your budget and lifestyle, then they can recommend the most compatible models. This can save you hours of research.

Another helpful resource is customer reviews. For every used boat that you consider, there are multiple people who currently own that given model. Many folks share their experiences online. Reading through these reviews can give you valuable insight into whether a given model will be a great match for your family.

Learn About the Used Boat

Once you've found a used boat that you are interested in, the next step is to learn everything you can about it.

1. Learn About the Used Boat's Past

Ask for a copy of the maintenance records. See whether the previous owner kept up with past maintenance, whether the boat has suffered an accident, whether there are repeat issues that could continue to be a problem, and so on. The used boat's past can give you great insight into its future longevity and performance.

2. Inspect the Used Boat

Conduct a thorough inspection of the used boat. Test all the various electronics to ensure they work. Look over the exterior for any concerning cracks. Check the interior for signs of rust, mold, or other damage. See whether any repairs will be needed soon and factor those expenses into your budget. Make sure you have a thorough understanding of the used boat's condition and decide whether it suits your needs.

Ready to shop for used boats for sale? Thayer's Marine carries a range of options. See the models online or at our dealership in Norwich, Connecticut. We also proudly serve those in Springfield, Massachusetts.