The mind set:
I have purchased many used cars, trucks and Jet-skis over my life time. One constant rule, was to buy low, fix, rent or resell. The First objective is learn a great deal about the vehicle, weighting the benefits and find out if it could be bought low enough to make a viable option for new owner ship.
When purchasing a watercraft for the first time, “Don’t get caught up in the emotion of owning that new toy”, you are at a unique disadvantage! The seller has all information concerning the history of it. Don’t leave this transaction up to chance. Due your due diligence. If the model of craft are known before hand, conduct research using reliable websites. Speaking specifically of forums. Almost every model has a support group which aims to help people with similar mechanical or electrical problems.
In addition, it is also a good idea to consult professional publications for general repairs or recalls. Any info obtained prior to meting the seller, can be used for negotiation. It is often said, power is knowledge but only to those who seek it!
Meeting the seller:
Walk around the vehicle, see if there are obvious signs of neglect. Do not become distracted by the seller’s speech. Experience has taught me to remain focused on the primary objective!
Use basic fact gathering techniques that will help shed light on the true story of this machine! There are no promises during private sale transactions. During this process, your data collection efforts will help in deciding whether to abandon this option or investigate further. Another mistake people often make is observing vehicles or boats in poor light. Avoid this ..you will lose 90% of the time!
If you feel intimidated with all this, bring a friend or consultant. It’s much cheaper implementing these tactics (in the long run) than to get stuck with something unusable and worthless.
It’s hard to image why people would want to rip of others but these people are out there! When a seller makes a bold claim “It ran before parked” Walk away!, this claim cannot be tested! You are not there to be lied too! Don’t play that game! There will be other units to buy in the near future.
Thanks for reading
….www.tinyboatrentals.com
5 crucial areas of interest.
- Examine hull
- Operate Engine
- Check for coolant & oil leaks
- Notice electrical repairs
- Test ride.
During initial inspections observe the engine bay. A true sign of neglect would be signs of incorrect fasteners and other parts. Worn impellers, stiff steering linkage, poor engine idling, fuel line deterioration, and unchanged fuel filters .
If the vehicle passed your observations thus far, check out documentation. Inquire about proper registration, bill of sale and maintenance records.
Some sheriffs departments can conduct registration research to validate past ownership, or lost or stolen status. They might even provide a printout for the DVM, stating it has passed their background check. Normally, a letter is written for DMV clerks to explain it is ready for registration. This is indicated by a special code within the letter.
The more documentation present, the more likelihood, there won’t be an issue registering it. Most DMV’s are strict in terms of proving ownership. So don’t let any transaction ruin the day! Finally, make a sound offer based on what information is available.
www.Tinyboatrentals.com