While visiting a local boat show, you finally found that perfect boat you have dreamed about ever since you were a kid. You see the price tag and realize that what you have is nearly enough to purchase that boat and all you need is to convince you ever-supportive wife to give you that extra $200 to complete the deal. However, before offloading a considerable amount of cash to buy a boat, there are several factors you should think about before making that major decision.

Someone that wants to buy a boat must first determine what type of boating he/she will be doing. A lot of boat buyers fall into the trap of choosing a boat based on aesthetics and will soon realize that what they bought is not appropriate for their needs.

Other factions include the climate the boat will be exposed to. Large body boats are appropriate for water locations with rough conditions and big strong waves, while boats with fewer freeboard and deadrise are just right for small and sheltered water spots. A Bimini topped open boat is perfect in warmer climates.

Go New Or Go Used

Another option on buying a boat is whether to buy something brand new or used. Obviously, a used boat will be considerably cheaper compared to a new one but may contain more useful accessories that the previous owner decided to put in. In addition, a used boat that has been well taken care off will likely perform reliably and does not have to undergo a break-in period.

One advantage of a new boat is that it will come with a factory warranty. Anytime the unit becomes defective within the warranty period, the owner can just contact the boat company to have it repaired or receive replacement parts free of charge. A new boat though will see its value sharply go down once it leaves the showroom.

Visiting boat shows is the ideal practice when shopping around for a new boat, as it will give the buyer a chance to compare head-to-head the products of different manufacturers. Also consider after-service, as the buyer may have difficulty in claiming after-sales service if the boat manufacturer is located in another state or hundreds of miles away.

It is also wise to be patient. Boat manufacturers tend to make sharp discounts on boats that will soon be replaced by new models. Normally, clearing out sales of boats occurs during late July. Buyers can also inquire for old models still in stock once the new ones are rolled out in the market.

Shopping for used boats is also fun and exciting but will likely require the buyer to be very careful in making choice. Advertisements of used boats can be seen in classifieds ads, various websites and magazines. Buyers should also be on the look out for refurbished boats. Refurbished boats may have been slightly used and returned to the dealership for replacing or minor repairs. In addition, refurbished boats are normally as good as a new one, will have a factory warranty and retail cheaper that its original sticker price.

Things to be checked when buying a boat

* Steering and throttle controls.

* Various systems; galley stove, head, heater, bilge pump, stereo, winches, freshwater, sink blower, lights, shower, air conditioner, generator.

* Upholstery

* Condition of cabin

* Fuel tank, lines and fittings.

* Check for leaks and rust in electrical items.

* Close and open hatches.

Khieng 'Ken' Chho is author and owner of Online Boat Buying Resources. For related articles and other resources, visit Ken's website: http://buy-boat.1w3b.net
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