Tips on How to Buy a Boat
The first step in how to buy a boat is to decide what type of boat best fits your needs. Those needs are usually determined by what you plan to do on the water and what size boat you can tow.
It’s also helpful to consider where you’ll be boating most often, whether on lakes, rivers, or coastal waters, as this can influence the hull design and features you’ll want. Stop by Reeder-Trausch Marine and explore new and pre-owned boats today!
Consult a Boat Buying Checklist
Some first-time boat buyer tips include looking at a boat buying checklist. You can break down buying a boat into seven easy steps.
- Step 1 - Determine the right boat for your needs.
- Step 2 - Decide if a new or used boat is right for you.
- Step 3 - Ensure that you're buying a certified boat.
- Step 4 - Figure out how much boat you can afford with a boat loan calculator.
- Step 5 - Research boat financing and how to get a boat loan.
- Step 6 - Shop for your boat by looking at the types of boats for sale at Reeder-Trausch Marine.
- Step 7 - Decide on a boat and close the deal. You'll likely find out about registration, insurance, and taxes at this point as well.
What's the Best Boat for Beginners?
If you've decided to embrace the boating lifestyle but don’t have any experience, you're probably wondering what the best boat for beginners is. The first step is figuring out how you plan to use your boat, whether it's for fishing, relaxing cruises, or watersports, and how many passengers you’ll typically have on board. You’ll also want to consider where you'll be boating. Larger bodies of water may require a deeper hull for stability.
Lund boats are a great starting point for those interested in fishing. Known for their lightweight aluminum construction and durability, Lund models are ideal for freshwater fishing in smaller lakes and rivers. If you want added versatility, an all-purpose fishing boat from Lund can easily handle both angling and casual cruising.
If you’re more interested in recreational activities, bowriders like those from Four Winns deliver smooth handling and fun performance with plenty of room for friends and family. Bennington and Avalon pontoon boats are top choices for laid-back outings and easy operation. Their wide, stable platforms and user-friendly controls make them especially beginner-friendly, while still offering plenty of space and comfort.
Shopping For a Boat
When you shop for a boat, it's important to actually visit a boat showroom. You can look at general types of boats for sale online, but then you should visit a showroom so you can see and touch different types of boats. When you see the boat in person, you can more easily get a good idea of how big it is and imagine yourself on the water with it.
When it comes to purchasing a boat, there’s more to think about than just the sticker price. Be sure to factor in additional costs like insurance, registration, seasonal storage, and essential accessories. Some of these items are optional, but others, like life jackets, navigation lights, fire extinguishers, and a throwable flotation device, are legally required to operate your boat safely and within state regulations.
At Reeder-Trausch Marine, choosing the right boat is easy. Our expert staff can help you decide what type of boat best suits your boating plans. Get in touch today!
