Buying a boat can be a fun and exciting experience, however, it is important to consider all of the pros and cons, as well as what your budget is when making this big decision. Prevent buyer’s remorse by avoiding these common buying mistakes.

Failing to understand your needs. It is imperative to decide first and foremost what you will be using your boat for. Whether you are looking for a boat for water sports, fishing, or both, you must consider how many people will it need to hold, and what types of activities it will be used for.

Buying too quickly. It is important to not make your decision too quickly. It is imperative to shop around and explore your options. By jumping into the first boat you see, you may not only be losing out on saving money by finding a better deal, but also missing out on a boat that mat better fit your needs or wants.

Buying from the wrong place. With all the available options out there, it is important to but a used boat from a reputable source, like OnlyInboards. Not only will they be able to help you ensure you are getting the best deal, but they are professionals in the industry and can be a great resource tool for your buying needs.

Not doing your research. When you have made a decision or are narrowing down your search, it is essential to perform a thorough check into your “potential” boat. Make yourself knowledgeable about it’s history, including any repairs and service history, as well as the owner history or accident reports. A detailed history can easily be done by simply obtaining the Hull Identification Number (HIN), which is typically found on the insurance paperwork or the title and registration and run it through a background check database. By doing this before you purchase your boat can save you time, money, and potential problems in the future.

As always, it is also important to know the rules and regulations in regards to boating in your state, especially when it comes to licensing and safety requirements.

Contact OnlyInboards, the Internet’s largest inboard specific website, to view our additional boating resources and tools, and to view our selection of used boats and accessories.