Cheap Boats for Sale

Boat Storage

Owning a boat can be a great way to enjoy the water in a variety of ways. Speed boats are a pleasure to race for cash prizes or other awards. Sailboats let you enjoy the water at the pace that the wind blows the sails and moves the boat along the waves. Row boats, yachts and many other kinds of boats make water sports and pleasure boating some of the most enjoyable past times around.

If you own a boat that is kept on the water, storing your boat may only be necessary when the weather is bad or when seasons change if you live in a state where the water freezes during the winter time. Perhaps the safest and most secure way to store your boat is to have a boat shed built on the water behind your home. This is probably the most expensive way to store your boat and is not transferrable if you move to another home and want to take your boat with you.

Even if you do not live in an area where removing your boat is necessary in the winter, you still have occasions when you want to store your boat out of the water. Some of these occasions include when your boat is not in use for any extended length of time, if you keep your boat in an area that has periods where it is closed, and when in climate weather is threatening and an advisory has been sent out saying you need to remove your boat from the water.

Boat storage can be made simple and secure when you know the best places to store your boat and are sure that it will be kept safe and secure while it is there. If you are searching for boat storage, there are a few basic things you should know about where you plan to store your boat before you pay your money and put your boat in someone's care.

Before you begin your search for boat storage, determine how long you will need to use the storage and what kind of storage you prefer. For example, there are boat storage areas very close to the water that simply places your boat in a hoist above the water and beneath a shed enclosure that protects it from direct exposure to the climate but not climate control such as you would receive in an indoor storage area. Make sure you find out whether your boat will be given an oil change before going into storage and a tune up if you plan to store your boat for a lengthy period of time such as a year or more.

When you start searching for boat storage, as sayings go, check your own back yard first. If you have a large back yard and zoning or homeowner's association rules do not prohibit boat storage, consider storing your boat in your own back yard. If this is not an option, your proverbial back yard can include local boat warehouses, boat sheds, and outdoor boat storage facilities to name a few.

Outdoor boat storage facilities in southern states like Alabama are probably the easiest way to store your boat. These outdoor boat storage facilities are readily available if you need to store your boat in an emergency and have some of the most flexible storage terms around. Outdoor boat storage facilities are seldom completely full, virtually guaranteeing that you can store your boat there. Rates for outdoor boat storage facilities are usually less because less is provided meaning you'll have to protect your boat from the elements.

Boat warehouses are perhaps the nicest choices because your boat is protected indoors and safe from weather hazards, tampering and accidental damage. Many boat warehouses have relatively easy terms and offer discounts for extended periods of storage. Using a boat warehouse does require you to have your boat shipped to the warehouse unless the service is provided in your rental fee.

Boat sheds are also a simple and secure way to store your boat near the water or inland. Boat sheds are convenient and easy storage that usually protects your boat on several sides but your boat is not completely enclosed and should have its own covering to protect glass and interior furnishings. Boat sheds are usually less expensive and more readily available than boat warehouses. Boat sheds are a great choice for seasonal storage such as winter but can also be used for longer periods of storage.

(ArticlesBase SC #890580)

Guide to Buying a Boat

You have always dreamed of owning a boat. You finally have the money you need to purchase it. Are you sure you are ready? Before you put up the large amount of money necessary to purchase a boat, make sure you are getting a good deal on a boat you can realistically use.

Features to Consider

When you buy a boat, you need to make sure it works well on the type of water you have nearby. If the water you will be boating on is small and fairly sheltered you do not need a lot of deadrise or freeboard on your boat. On the other hand, if the water is going to bring waves your way, you will need these features. If you are boating in a cool climate, look for a boat that will protect you from the elements if it gets cold or starts raining while you are on the water. On the other hand, if you are boating in a warm climate, you may want some shade from the sun, but other than that an open boat is just fine.

Should You Buy New or Used?

Just like car buyers, those who are shopping for a boat must decide whether they want a new or used boat, and the decision is not necessarily easy. New boats are less likely to need to be repaired right away. New boats often come with a warranty. On the other hand, used boats cost less and often have already received the upgrades that you might want. Used boats also do not depreciate as quickly as new boats, because their purchase price already reflects some depreciation.

If you choose to buy a new boat, visit boat shows or shop towards the end of the model year, which occurs in July. These are the best times to find a good deal on a new boat. If you decide to shop for a used boat, use online classifieds to find a variety of boats in your area. You can also shop at dealerships to see boats that they received as trade-ins. These are not as prevalent as they are in the used car world, but you can find them.

If you decide to buy a used boat, you have one important thing to consider. Boats are commonly stolen. Before you buy a used boat that has a great price, make sure that you see the owner's proof of ownership, such as the title to the boat. If the owner does not have these, he may have stolen the boat. Find a different boat to buy.

Researching a Particular Boat

If you decide to shop for a used boat, which is the most economical option, you will want to do some research before you buy a boat that seems to fit your needs. You can call the U.S. Coast Guard to find out if the boat has had any manufacturer's recalls. If it has, find out from the seller if the necessary parts have been repaired. If they haven't, do not buy the boat unless the recall period is still in effect and you can get the problems fixed.

Inspecting the Engine

Never buy a boat unless you have thoroughly inspected the engine. If you do not know much about engines, have a mechanic or technician who is knowledgeable about boats do an inspection for you. Boat engines work much harder than car engines, so you need to look at the engine carefully. Keep in mind that boats that run in salt water are prone to more corrosion than those that run in fresh water.

Check all hoses, gaskets, and plugs for signs of leakage. Inspect hoses and belts for signs of cracking. If they are brittle, they have not been well cared for or are old. Check the bilge for oil, as this can be a sign of an oil leak. Inspect the sacrificial anodes for signs of wear and corrosion. Check the engine and gear case oil. If they are very dirty, the boat has not had the normal maintenance done to it. Boats that were run hot will have a white residue on the engine. You can inspect the spark plugs to see how well the engine has been serviced. Poorly serviced engines will have burnt or poorly gapped spark plugs. Be sure to inspect the propeller, rudder, and drive for signs of damage caused by hitting something that was submerged underwater. While this does not mean the owner was negligent, these are damages that could cost you significantly as the boat's new owner.

Consider Hiring a Professional

A marine surveyor is someone who can do the necessary inspections on a boat you are considering buying. You will probably find that your insurance provider or your loan officer requires you to have a surveyor inspect the boat. If not, you should hire one to do an inspection before you buy the boat.

Besides inspecting the engine and body for normal problems, a marine surveyor knows all of the laws regarding boat safety and manufacturing. He will know if add-ons that the owner has put on the boat are safe or not. You can find independent marine surveyors using the classifieds or phone book. Be sure that you are present for the surveyors' inspection, so you can ask questions about his findings.

Take It for a Test Run

Before you buy a boat, ask for a "sea trial." Take the owner along with you and take the boat for a spin. Ask the owner to keep the engine cold before you arrive, so that you can make sure that the boat starts well with a cold engine. Maneuver the boat through a variety of tests, such as forward and reverse, turning, accelerating and slowing down. Be sure to take some waves at various angles. If the water is still, make some circles with the boat to create waves. These tests will help you know whether or not the boat handles well. If it does and it passed the inspections process, you have found the right boat for you!

(ArticlesBase SC #615492)

Advice on Buying a New or Used Boat

Buying a new boat:

Are you planning on purchasing a new boat? Whether you are a first time boat owner, or have been navigating the waters for decades, there are a few steps you should take. As exciting as it is; buying a new boat is not something that you should just jump into.

You need to decide which boat is right for you and your needs. Take into consideration what you will be using the boat for, who will be going with you, and where you will be taking your boat. You can find this information buy reading articles about different types of boats, researching boating websites, and looking through boat review magazines. Boat shows are an excellent way to learn about boat styles, sizes, engines and equipment. Reading opinions and experiences that other people have with boats may sway your decision or give you ideas.

What size should I get?

Deciding what size boat you need is important. You do not want to get a boat that is too small for the intended use, or one that is too big for just taking you fishing. Bigger boats will usually have more amenities such as cabins, toilets, and galleys. However, this means that there are more systems that need to be understood and maintained. Some boats are too big to be trailered, which leads to transportation issues. They will also take more gas to operate.

New or Used?

Decide whether you want a boat that has never hit the water or one that has had a little experience. Buying both new and used boats has its pros and cons, like anything else. Whether you are buying new or used; shop around before making your big purchase.

If you buy a new boat, you know that it does not already have problems or repairs that need to be made. If anything goes wrong with the boat once you own it, it is under warranty. Buying new also allows you to custom order according to your specific needs and wants. There are financing options when buying a new boat, which allows for better interest rates and deals. If you buy new, make sure that you address any problems that come up while the warranty is still in effect.

If it is a seasoned boat that you are looking for; than buying used is your best option. Used boats are good for boaters who are not sure what they want to do on the boat. If you are on a budget, buying used in less expensive than new. You may not find exactly what you want in a used boat, which leads to added expenses to customize later. Before buying your used boat, get a marine survey and have the boat inspected. This will check for structural damage or mechanical problems that the owner failed to mention, or may not have known about. They will also be able to detect whether the boat will need repair in the near future. With this information you can make an educated decision on whether buying used will really save you more money.

Make sure that the dealer you are buying your boat from is reputable. Checking around and asking advice will only help you in the long run. It is very important to check the dealer/seller for proof of ownership. You do not want to buy a boat that is stolen. If you feel as though you need help researching and purchasing your boat, you may want to hire a yacht broker. They will help you determine which boat is best for you, negotiate deals and arrange financing.

Test Drive:

Like a car, a boat should also be taken for a test drive. Once you think you have found the boat that you would like to purchase, it is a good idea to see how it handles on the water. Here you can see if you enjoy the way that it rides, and if it is right for you. There are certain tests that you should do while out on the water. Check to the engine to see if they are warm before turning on the ignition. If it is, the owner may have started it up prior to your arrival. This would be done to hide the fact that the boat may have trouble starting. The bilge should be checked at the beginning and end of the test drive for any oil leaks. While in the dock, maneuver the boat around in forward and reverse to check for response time. Check for bow steering while at slow speeds, and record how long it takes the boat to plane at high speeds. Take several turns; wide and tight at various speeds. If the bow of the boat bounces on straight runs, adjusting the trim should be able to fix the problem. Check to see how smoothly the boat handles waves and wakes. You do not want side to side rolling. You should also be observing how well the gauges and instruments are working, as well as the oil pressure. The engine should be run long enough to check for overheating.

Purchasing the boat:

Make sure to check around for prices and follow blue book pricing guides. This will help you negotiate the best price for your boat. Once you have the price you are satisfied with, have the owner put it in writing. This will eliminate any problems with price changes before the sale is complete. This agreement should also list terms, as well as the accessories that are included in the price. If you are buying a new boat, contact several lenders to get the best deal on financing.

A few more things after the purchase:

It is a good idea to take a boating safety course. Even if you are familiar with the water, and have been on numerous boats in the past; you should take the course. There are safely tips to follow to make sure that you have a fun and safe summer on your boat.

You are now the proud owner of a boat that is new to you. When insuring your boat, it is very important to include the survey and inspection if you have one.
Register your boat and apply for a new registration sticker. Title your boat in your own name; if it was previously owned it will need to be re-titled. Pay your sales taxes. Get your boat inspected by the local Coast Guard and display the sticker on the port side window.

Preparing yourself by setting a budget is important. Owning a boat can get expensive. Plan out what added expenses you feel are necessary for your boat, and don’t forget the cost of fuel. Following money saving tips will help you stick to your budget.

If you are not an experienced boater, your first trip on the water should be with one. They can show you helpful things like turns, docking and trailering. They will help you to feel more comfortable and confident enough to be on your own.
Make sure you are equipped with the necessities. Keep a tool kit, first aid kit, documentation, light bulbs, fuses and manuals on board.

Get out on the water and enjoy your new boat!

(ArticlesBase SC #195624)