Depending on the boat owner, the day your boat sells can be the most exciting day or the sad day. No matter which it is, you’ll want to make sure that the transfer is done correctly and respectfully. If you’re transferring ownership of a boat, here are 5 things to remember for a smooth transition.
Give The Buyer A Walkthrough Of The Boat
One of the more courteous things to do as a seller is to give the buyer a walkthrough of the boat before both parties go their own ways.
What I suggest is the following-
Discuss The Valves In The Bilge
The bilge of some boats can be a complex maze of hoses and valves. This is particularly the case in fishing boats where through hulls are feeding baitwells and a washdown hose.
One of the more thoughtful things to do at transfer is explain the position of the vales. Provide details on how to turn on or isolate hoses or baitwells.
Give A Demonstration On The Helm Switches
The number of switches on the helm is highly dependent on the vessel. No matter if it is just a few switches or a lot, show the functionality of each.
Show The Location Of The Anchor Or Anchors
For the most part, a bow anchor would be stowed in the most forward locker. However, this can change based on the vessel. For this reason, show the location and discuss the number of feet of line.
However, some boat owners, in addition to the bow anchor, have a stern anchor on hand. Again, show the location where the anchor is stored and the benefits of using two anchors when anchoring at the beach.
Pass Along And Discuss The Maintenance Records
As a boat owner, I was particular about logging all maintenance, whether I performed it or paid for it. A potential buyer is more likely to go through with the purchase if maintenance records are on hand. For this reason, show the buyer the records and review the work performed.
Transfer The Title Or Generate A Bill Of Sale
Today, boat owners either have a paper title or an electronic title. The one that you have is highly dependent on the year that the boat was originally purchased.
One of the best things about electronic titles is that they cannot be lost compared to paper titles. Needless to say, a lost paper title becomes a challenge to replace and may ultimately delay the sale of the vessel.
In the event that you are transferring ownership via an electronic title, make sure to complete a bill of sale. Present the bill of sale with signatures when registering the vessel.
In regards to a paper title, make sure that the selling price and signatures are included. The new owner must have the paper title in hand to register the vessel.
Although the process seems daunting, it is relatively straightforward. I had a buyer view my boat one time and make the purchase. Fortunately, I had the title on hand, so we were able to get the deal done on the spot.
Include The Safety Equipment If You’re Not Buying A New Boat
As a boat owner, you must have safety equipment onboard. Typically, the hatches are lined with life jackets; flares are on hand, a throwable is in sight, and more.
Undoubtedly, it is best to pass the safety equipment along to the new owner if you’re not planning on transitioning into a new boat. The buyer will greatly appreciate saving money after making the purchase.
When I sold my boat, I knew that I would not be getting into a new vessel anytime soon. Therefore, I included the life jackets, flares, prop wrench, and throwable with the sale.
Explain Dockage Details Or Trailering Specifics To The Buyer
Look, you don’t want to leave someone completely blind when it comes to dockage details or trailering nuances.
Consider some of the minute details when transferring the ownership of a vessel. Some of these details include remembering to secure the outboard motor lock when trailering, currents that are challenging to navigate in the marina and timing for hauling a boat to be placed in the dry rack.
Additionally, show them how to use the marine electronics if they are unfamiliar with the location of the battery switch. Without question, the list can go on forever. All I am saying is to be considerate. In the end, you will have fewer calls directly related to questions from the buyer.
Make Sure To Include All Sets Of Keys
Similar to selling a car to a dealership that requests both sets of keys, the same applies to selling a boat.
The buyer of the boat will appreciate having two sets in the event that one is lost at any point. Importantly, you may have to dig deep in the drawers to locate the spare set. More than likely, you have not had to touch them since you bought the boat in the first place.
With that said, take the extra effort to find the keys and pass them on.
Remember These 5 Tips When Transferring Ownership Of A Boat
Without a doubt, the process of transferring a boat is not complex but must be throughout. The last thing you want is to deal with endless phone calls because you forgot to mention specific details. With that said, following these 5 tips will make the transfer more seamless rather than dealing with a headache.
