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Boat Surveyors Fort Lauderdale – Which is the Best Sailboat for Beginners?

When it comes to boating, you have to start somewhere. However, starting with the wrong type of boat can leave you feeling demoralized and frustrated. The temptation of buying a boat filled with all manner of gadgets and plenty of space will always be there. This is, nevertheless, not a priority when deciding on a boat to buy. Experienced boat surveyors Fort Lauderdale trusts will tell you that the love of sailing will come from feeling in control and at one with the sea. All you need is a hull, mast, rudder, and a sail and you will develop your love for the open waters. But which boat should you buy as a beginner?

Although it seems logical that the smaller the boat, the easier it is to handle, that is not always the case. Beginner friendliness is determined by rig simplicity and handling. As you search for the right boat, focus on the ones that are easy to rig, simple to sail, and lightweight for easy transportation. Keep in mind that your first boat doesn’t have to be your forever boat. As you hone your boating skills, you can upgrade to an even bigger and more sophisticated sailboat. The goal here is to pick the boat that best suits your present needs.

All in all, you shouldn’t buy a boat without having it assessed by boat surveyors Fort Lauderdale. As a first-time buyer, it is easy for sellers to exploit you due to your lack of knowledge of boats. Working with experienced marine surveyors will keep you from investing in doomed vessels. The surveyor will first help you determine if the boat you are considering is ideal for your skill level. Next, they will perform a thorough assessment to make sure the boat is in good condition. The survey report will also give insight into how much the boat will cost to fix up. You can use this information to negotiate a lower price with the seller.

As you may already know, there is a huge selection of beginner-friendly sailboats to pick from. To avoid making the wrong choice, start by taking a look at the most popular beginner sailboats in Fort Lauderdale. That way you will have more people to consult if there is an issue with your boat. Some great beginner sailboats to consider are:

  • Sailing Dinghies
  • Catalina 16.5 and 22
  • Hunter 15 and 22
  • Hobie 16
  • West Wight Potter P 19

Don’t spend too much money on your first sailboat. As a beginner, you will get into accidents. The last thing you want is to give up on your dream because you can’t afford the repairs. You also need to get a boat whose replacement parts are easy to find.

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Boat Surveyor Fort Lauderdale – How to Shop for a Boat During Winter

It has been said that shopping for a boat during winter is the best time. This is a time when fewer people are shopping around and the demand for boats is low. Consequently, chances of getting a great boat for a remarkable bargain are a lot higher during this time. But what should you do to end up with the best boat. In addition to retaining the services of an experienced boat surveyor Fort Lauderdale trusts, here are a couple of things you must do.

Make a list of what you want to accomplish

The key to finding the exact boat that meets your needs is knowing precisely what you want. Think about the primary function of the boat, the number of people it should accommodate, the accessories it should have, its engine capacity and how much you are willing to spend. Setting these parameters will help you perform focused searches. You will also know where to shop around and the type of boat surveyor Fort Lauderdale you should retain.

Research brands

There are so many boats that can meet your needs. The issue is some of those boats are more trouble than you would want. After narrowing down your choice to a specific type and size of boat, the next step is to research models. Which ones have the best reputation in your area? What are reviewers saying about those boat models?

Attend winter boat shows

By this point, you will have knowledge on the brand of boat you should focus on, and how much it will roughly cost. The next step is to attend boat shows to see the available boats in person. While it can be overwhelming to attend a boat show, it is one of the best places to browse through boats that are available for sale. Keep in mind that boat owners are at a show because they want to sell their boats. If you see a vessel you like, get the contacts of the boat owner. You can contact them later to strike a better deal.

Consider resale values

Last but not least, before you settle for a boat, make sure you take note of its resale value. Some vessels have a higher demand than others. You don’t want to be the owner of an unsellable boat, do you? Consulting an experienced boat surveyor in Fort Lauderdale will help you avoid buying vessels with terrible resale values.

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Boat Inspector Fort Lauderdale – How to Choose the Right Project Boat

If your heart is set on restoring a boat, then buying a project boat will bring you a lot of satisfaction. The first step is to pick the right boat. Doing this requires the input of an experienced boat inspector Fort Lauderdale trusts. The role of the boat inspector will be to document the exact condition of the boat so that you know what will need fixing and how much it will cost.

Keep in mind that the bigger the boat is the more work it will require. You will also need to make arrangements for its transportation and storage. A bigger boat will also take longer to fix. The best thing, however, is that with a project boat, you get the chance to own a bigger boat that you would otherwise not have been able to acquire. Keep a boat inspector Fort Lauderdale close. His input can even help you secure funding and point you in the direction of the best boat spare parts dealer in Florida. However, even with the help of an experienced boat surveyor, there are a couple of things you will have to consider before choosing a boat.

The first thing you must do is make sure the boat you are considering has salvageable equipment. You don’t want to spend money on a shell, do you? The cost of replacing everything onboard can be high. Your marine surveyor will inspect the available equipment and help you know how much it will roughly cost to buy the necessary equipment. If too many pieces of equipment are missing, make sure you factor that in when making an offer to the seller.

Another important thing to do is make sure you are choosing a boat that has plenty of spares available. You will get the most enticing offers when considering the lesser-known boat models. The downside is getting the required spares will be a nightmare. Choose a boat that has plenty of spares as well as plenty of fans so that you won’t have trouble trying to sell it later on.

The third thing you must do is avoid project boats that have severe structural defects. Structural problems are hard and expensive to repair. Some structural defects are even not repairable. Your boat inspector in Fort Lauderdale will be of great help at this point.

While buying a project boat will save you a significant amount of money, you still need a budget. Create a list of all the things that will have to be done to fix the boat and double that budget in order to account for the unforeseen expenditures.

Last but not least, if you plan on doing all the repairs yourself, make sure you select a boat that you can work on. For a first refit, select a model that has a simple design without too many systems. A boat that is easy to restore will give you confidence and make you proud of your handy work.

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Boat Inspection Fort Lauderdale – How to Choose a Boat to Buy

Owning a boat is no longer for the super-rich, thanks to the availability of marine mortgages. Provided you choose the right lender and raise a considerable amount of down payment, you can pay for your dream boat over a period of time you are comfortable with. However, before you get started with finding a lender, you need to identify the boat that is right for you and get a professional boat inspection Fort Lauderdale recommends.

Whether you are buying a brand new or a used boat, you will have an advantage if you provide a confirmed letter from the lender before you start negotiating with the seller. Being preapproved shows you are a serious buyer, which will speed up the process. Nevertheless, it is good to note that most lenders will require you perform a boat inspection Fort Lauderdale trusts before they can approve you for the loan. In this case, you have to find the boat you want before reaching out to a lender. But how do you choose the perfect boat?

Set a budget

The first thing you must do is set a budget. How much do you want to spend on a boat? Your budget will help narrow down your search to the boats you can afford. Don’t set a budget blindly. Do some research to find out how much boats go for. Your budget must also not focus only on the purchase cost. Think about the cost of a marine survey, boat insurance, marine fees, fuel costs, maintenance, and safety requirement.

Know the type of boat you want

With your budget in hand, it is time to think about the type of boat you want. This will depend on what you need the boat for. Are you looking for a fishing boat or a party cruise? The activities you intend on engaging in will help you know which boat will be perfect for you. Make your choice with your budget in mind. 

Inspect the boat

There are so many boats in perfect conditions all across Florida. However, this does not mean you commit to a boat blindly. In order to attract buyers, most sellers do some aesthetic work which conceals the flaws. With the help of a professional boat inspection in Fort Lauderdale, you will be able to uncover all the issues that a boat has.

These points will help you move in the right direction when searching for a boat. The secret to ending up with the perfect boat is liaising with the experts. An experienced boat surveyor will offer crucial information that will keep you from making the wrong choices.

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What Marine Surveyors Ft Lauderdale Focus on in a Boat Inspection

Now that you have found the right used boat to buy, the next thing you should do is bring in experienced marine surveyors Ft Lauderdale trusts to assist with the inspection. While it is okay to buy a boat without performing a thorough inspection, you are in safer hands when you work with a competent surveyor. In this post, we will be looking at what marine surveyors focus on in a boat inspection.

Exterior

A marine survey usually starts with the visual inspection of the exterior of a boat. The goal is to help marine surveyors Ft Lauderdale depends on get a feel of the hull. This is very important because you don’t just want a beautiful boat but a sound boat that will keep you and your family safe. When inspecting the exterior of a boat, the surveyor will do the following:

  • Check for damages or major repairs on the hull
  • Inspect the condition of the decks, transom, fuel tank and bilge
  • Make sure the stringers are connected properly
  • If you are buying a sailing yacht, the boat surveyor will check the sails and rigging because they are very costly to replace.

Engine and electrical

Now that a record has been made on the condition of the exterior, the next step is to check the condition of the engine and electrical systems. These are basically the heart of the boat. If they are not working properly, they are not only expensive to repair and replace but your boat will not work without them. When inspecting the engine and the electrical, the surveyor will do the following:

  • Check the condition of the oil
  • Inspect for rust around the engine
  • Inspect the belts, hoses and electrical connections
  • Check the condition of the propeller
  • Listen to the sound the engine makes
  • Inspect all the electrics

Interior

The interior of a boat gives a good idea on how well the boat has been cared for. You should, however, note that some sellers will do temporary work to improve aesthetics. For the untrained eye, it is not easy to detect these kind of upgrades. An experienced marine surveyor in Ft Lauderdale will, however, be able to detect upgrades that have been done to cover the rot. Some of the things the surveyor will do include the following:

  • Inspect for mold and mildew
  • Check for leaks
  • Check the hatches, doors and windshield

A lot goes into a boat inspection. To ensure you are not spending money on a doomed vessel, you will need the input of experienced marine surveyors in Ft Lauderdale. Hire someone that has inspected vessels that are similar to the one you are targeting.

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Marine Surveyors Fort Lauderdale – Should You Buy a Project Boat?

Do you enjoy fixing stuff? If you do, buying a project boat might be your best way of getting a used boat at an unbeatable price. However, while it is a great feeling to bring an old, tired boat back to its former glory, you must understand that not all boats can be revived. That is why you must always involve marine surveyors Fort Lauderdale trusts to help you determine if the boat you are targeting is salvageable or not.

Project boats, also known as refit boats, are boats that cannot be used in their current state. They have to be fixed up to make them seaworthy. Just like with cars and houses, project boats come in many guises, from those that require a full overhaul and replacement of the engine to those that only need minor cosmetic touchups. You will not be able to tell what your target boat needs until you involve marine surveyors Fort Lauderdale depends on. The marine surveyor’s role will be to evaluate every aspect of the vessel and provide you with a list of items that will have to be repaired or replaced. This information can help you know if the boat is worth buying or not.

Benefits of a project boat

Buying a project boat is a major undertaking. You have to make time to invest blood, sweat and tears to bring the boat back to life. Some costs will be involved. However, some benefits come with going for a project boat.

  • Get your dream boat for way less

There are so many incredible boats available as project boats. You will be able to find your dream boat at a low price. Then, all you have to do is invest a little more money to bring it back to life. Many people fund their dream boats by buying them as project boats.

  • Get to know your boat inside and out

As you work to fix up the boat, you will get to know every inch of it. Whether you will be fixing the boat up yourself or hiring an expert, you will get familiar with every nook and cranny of the new refit boat.

  • Unparalleled satisfaction

A few things are more satisfying than seeing your hard work bear fruits. While there are days you will wish you went with a different option, when the boat is ready for its first sail, you will appreciate every moment you spend working on it.

All in all, it is good to note that project boats are not ideal for everyone. For example, if it is your first boat or you are in a rush, getting a refit boat might not be the option for you. You also need to involve marine surveyors in Fort Lauderdale to keep yourself from getting a boat that cannot be fixed.

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Great Questions About Working with a Marine Surveyor Fort Lauderdale Trusts

Before hiring a marine surveyor Fort Lauderdale trusts, most people have many valid questions. These questions range from who to hire for the job to the type of survey they need. If you are hiring a surveyor for the first time, here are some questions you may be asking.

Which type of survey will I need?

The type of marine survey you need depends on what you need the survey for. If you are buying a used boat, for example, the type of survey you will need is a full condition survey. This is often referred to as a pre-purchase survey. With this type of survey, a marine surveyor Fort Lauderdale trusts will inspect every inch of the vessel. The surveyor will look at the electronics, safety systems, structural integrity and interior cosmetics. A sea trial may also be needed. On the other hand, if your insurer or lender requests a survey, you will need an insurance survey or a finance survey, respectively. Insurance and finance surveys are more basic.

Who pays for the marine survey?

The person that requests a marine survey is the one who pays the marine surveyor. In most cases, the buyer is the one who hires a surveyor. They do so because they are the ones undertaking the risk of buying a secondhand boat. There are, however, cases where the boat owner may choose to pay the surveyor to attract more buyers. However, as a buyer, you need to ensure that you hire an impartial surveyor. That is why it is better to find your own independent surveyor instead of working with the one recommended to you by the seller.  

Is the price of a survey negotiable?

For small vessels, marine surveyors may charge a fixed fee. However, the surveyor will charge per foot for larger or more complex vessels. Nevertheless, this does not mean that their rates are set in stone. You can negotiate with the surveyor to get a more favorable rate. You should, nonetheless, keep in mind that some of the best surveyors in the business might be reluctant to bring their fees down.

Who should you hire?

Since you are going to spend money on a marine surveyor, make sure you hire the best one in the business. In addition to being experienced, make sure the surveyor is registered with an official surveying organization that regulates its members. The surveyor must also have specific experience in surveying vessels of similar construction, style and size as the one you are considering. You should also ask for sample reports to see how comprehensive their survey reports are.  

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Boat Surveyors Ft Lauderdale – Buying Used Versus New Boats

When looking for a boat to buy, the possibilities stretch as far out as the inviting blue sea. One of the questions you will have to answer is whether to go for a used or a brand new boat. There are several factors you have to consider when deciding on the type of vessel to buy. In everything that you do, keep boat surveyors Ft Lauderdaletrusts close.

Buying Used Boats

If you want to get the most for your budget, used boats will be a good choice. Like used cars, used boats cost much less than brand new boats. You will be able to get a bigger boat for your money. It is also good to note that used boats already have VAT paid, and the initial depreciation cost will be in your favor. You are also most likely to get cheaper insurance for an older model. Although customization options are quite limited on a used boat, you can change the interior décor to your liking. However, you must never settle for a used boat without the opinion of boat surveyors Ft Lauderdale trusts.

You need the services of a boat surveyor because a used boat may have hidden problems. Used boats also don’t come with a warranty. You also need to ensure that the paperwork is in perfect order. Your marine surveyor will help with all this. The surveyor will also help with a sea trial to test the boat’s performance. All the issues will be included in a survey report. The surveyor will also help determine the fair market value of the vessel you are considering.

Buying a brand new boat

If you have a clear picture of what you want from your dream boat and extra cash to spare, buying a new boat will be the right path. When buying brand new, you get to pick the precise specifications you want, right down to the color of the upholstery. You can put a personal stamp on your dream through customization. The new technology further makes the boat economical, and everything will work like clockwork. You also get the peace of mind of warranty protection.

The downside to buying a brand new boat is the high cost, and the value depreciates quickly. You are also liable to pay VAT. Moreover, if you have a fixed budget, you will most likely get a much smaller boat than you would like. There may also be a long waiting time for a brand new boat unless the boat is already in stock. It is perfectly okay to involve boat surveyors in Ft Lauderdale when buying a brand new boat. The surveyor will give you a better understanding of the boat.

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Boat Surveyor Ft Lauderdale – Why Do Boats Cost So Much?

If you have taken a look at the cost of boats, both new and used, the price tags might have caught you unawares. There is no way of getting around the fact that boats are very expensive to buy and maintain. The cost is, however, justifiable. You should also not allow a seller to push you to buy at an exaggerated price. Working with a boat surveyor Ft Lauderdale trusts, can help you know if the price tag is fair or not.

Many factors influence the overall cost of owning a boat. The factors start with the cost of buying a boat. A used boat tends to be cheaper than a brand new one. Other costs you have to account for include the cost of insurance, storage fees, maintenance, and fuel. Understanding the cost of boating is something you must do before buying your first boat. Second, you have to get a professional’s opinion to help you know if you are making a good investment or not. An experienced boat surveyor Ft Lauderdale trust will help with this. Here are the other things that make boats expensive.  

Supply and demand

While you would expect boats to cost as much as cars, the cost of buying a good boat is much higher. This is due to supply and demand. Cars are a necessity in today’s world, whereas boats remain a luxury. Boat builders sell fewer vessels than car manufacturers. To make their business viable, boat builders need a bigger profit margin. This is one of the things that make boats so expensive. If you are on a tight budget but still need a boat, you should consider going for a used one. Used boats tend to cost less. You will, however, need the help of a boat surveyor to help with the inspection of the vessel. If a used boat has too many issues, you should consider staying away from it.

Manufacturing costs

The cost of building a boat is the main reason for the high price tag. Unlike cars, where the process is almost fully automated, boats are built mainly by hand. Huge shipyards are also needed to accommodate the boats. The big size and complexity require skilled labor. As a result, the cost of production is much higher.

Power

The horsepower behind a boat impacts the price tag significantly. The latest engines are quieter, fuel-efficient, have lower emissions, and more torque. Boats with these engines cost a lot more. A significant amount of money is also put into research and development.

There are many more factors that lead to the high price tag. Whether buying a brand new or used vessel, it is always wise to work with an experienced boat surveyor in Ft Lauderdale. The surveyor will ensure you don’t end up buying the wrong boat.

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Boat Surveyors Fort Lauderdale – Step-By-Step Guide for Buying a Boat

It seems logical to assume that the process of buying a boat is not too different from buying a car. While the two processes share similarities, they have key differences. For example, when buying a used car, you will get away with working with your mechanic to assess the vehicle. For a used boat, you will need boat surveyors Fort Lauderdale trusts. It is good to understand the steps involved in a boat-buying journey.

Choose a boat

While it is the obvious first step, it is not a small decision. Although there are so many boats on sale in Florida, not all of them will be perfect for you. You must set aside adequate time to find the right boat. You also need a budget. The top questions you must ask when searching for a boat include the following:

  • How big should the boat be?
  • What do you need the boat for?
  • How expensive is it to maintain your target boat?
  • How much insurance will you need?

The above are just a few questions you will have to ask. Next, you will need the input of boat surveyors Fort Lauderdale depends on. The surveyor’s role will be assessing the vessel to help you determine if it is in good condition or not. A marine surveyor will also help you know the vessel’s fair market value. You can use this information to inform your decision and negotiate with the seller.

Arrange to view

With the list of the potential boats you have shortlisted, you need to contact the brokers or sellers to arrange a viewing. Viewing helps see the vessel in person and allows you to ask vital questions such as what will be included in the sale. View all the vessels on your list before settling on one.

Check the title documents

Before you go any further with the purchase, you need to let your marine surveyor evaluate the boat and check the title documents. The goal here is to ensure the vessel is in good condition and that the seller owns the boat 100%. You don’t want to buy a vessel that a marine mortgage. You also want to be certain that the owner is free from charges, debts, liens and encumbrances. Your marine surveyor will review all the necessary documents and check if the vessel has VAT paid or is VAT exempted.

Sign the contract

When buying through a broker, you will have to sign a contract. The contract is legally binding and must be signed by both parties. Therefore, ensure you understand all the clauses before you sign. A deposit will also have to be paid to show commitment.

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