Buying a Boat: For starters, buying a boat without a broker limits the number of boats you can even look at because if the seller has hired a Broker. well, you get the idea. There is such a thing as a "Buyers Broker" and a "Sellers Broker" just like real estate. Most used boats for sale offer the ability for the buyer and the seller to be represented by a professional. Its one way to take the emotion out of the potential transaction. Having someone in your corner is worthwhile! About the only negative to having a broker as a buyers agent is that it slows down the process somewhat. But that can be a good thing too when considering a large purchase like this. Your buyers agent also has access to professional data, like book valuations and sold boat data that you as a consumer do not have access to. Who wants to overpay for a boat? Your broker can also suggest marine financing and insurance options as well. This gives you the opportunity to get pre-qualified just like a house. So, then, you are in a real position to negotiate when the time comes! Getting the boat surveyed before making an offer is imperative and a broker can facilitate this for you. Buyers almost always pay the survey cost. The cost of the survey is dependent upon how meticulous it needs to be. A good rule of thumb is the bigger the boat the more important it is to have a thorough survey. A lender or insurance carrier will want to see the survey as well. Except in rare instances, a survey will include hauling the boat out of the water to inspect the hull. The buyers broker will make sure all of the paperwork is handled correctly by the sellers broker, giving you an added layer of professionalism. more