When it comes to purchasing a boat, whether sailing or motor, it is essential to have clarity on various aspects before formalizing any offer. Even a sheet compiled by an experienced broker may hide unclear details that deserve further investigation.
If you are considering the purchase of a sailing boat, make sure to ask the following questions to the seller or broker:
- Age of the rigging: What is the age and condition of the rigging? Has it been replaced or repaired recently?
- Through-hulls: When were the through-hulls installed? What type of material are they made of?
- Sail drive membrane: How long has the sail drive membrane been in use?
- Shaft rubber: What is the age of the shaft rubber, and when was it last checked?
- Engine work: Have there been any extraordinary works done on the engine? If so, what interventions were made?
- Onboard equipment: Have there been extraordinary maintenance works on them?
- Structural repairs: Have any structural repairs been executed? If so, what type of work has been done?
- Antifouling treatments: Have antifouling treatments been performed? How long ago and with what results?
For a motorboat, the questions may include:
- Engine hours: How many hours does the engine have, and what is its maintenance history?
- Shaft seals: What is the age of the shaft seals? Have they been replaced recently?
- Propeller work: Have there been any replacements or repairs to the propellers? When were they done?
- Bushings: What is the age of the bushings, and have they been checked recently?
- Through-hulls: What is their condition, and when were they installed?
- Structural work: Have any structural works been performed? If so, what details can you provide?
Asking these questions not only helps eliminate uncertainties but also provides crucial information to both the appraiser and the buyer to better navigate before making an offer. It is important that all this information is supported by invoices and a detailed description of the work carried out. This way, risks are reduced and transparency is increased during the purchasing process.
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