Best time to buy?

[boatbum1959]

After two years of boating, the wife and I have decided that we really love it and want to upgrade. We currently own a 96 Bayliner 1954 capri and she wants a good used cabin cruiser around 27 - 29'so that we can spend weekends at the lake. <br /><br />When is the best time to start looking and think about buying? We live in Chattanooga, TN and the weather stays warm here for about 10 months a year. Do we wait until it gets cooler and people don't want to pay for winter storage, or during the spring boat shows when there are bound to be trades.<br /><br />Also what brands do you all recommend. We don't want to break the bank.<br /><br />Greg

 

[DJ]

Re: Best time to buy?

September 1 through November. I've picked up my best deals in Alabama within those dates.<br /><br />After Labor Day is the real starting point for deals.

 

[rabidfish]

Re: Best time to buy?

a hint or two to keep the checking account open...<br /><br />If you can... stick with a boat that can be trailered. Saving haul out fees for silly little issues can be a real time and money saver, not to mention a slightly smaller boat may save at the fuel dock.<br /><br />Also, invest in the new engine technology(EFI) The extra money spent on the drivetrain can also save you at the fuel dock. <br /><br />Absolutely, keep your eyes peeled for a good deal... starting about anytime now and going through the boat show... You never know when the right boat is gonna pop up...<br /><br />Good Luck!

 

[Chris_Crafter]

Re: Best time to buy?

I agree with the above also,but want to add don't be in a big hurry to buy if you can help it.I have found if your able to be patient you will find what your looking for.<br />Good Luck!<br /><br />Kevin

 

[DJ]

Re: Best time to buy?

Great advice on not being in a hurry. I've looked for over two years sometimes, but it was worth it.

 

[boatbum1959]

Re: Best time to buy?

Thanks for the advice. The wife is trying to slow me down (just a bit, she's excited about the prospect of W/E's on the lake).<br />I never really thought about haul out fees (thanks rabid). How much do they average, and how often do you need to take it out?

 

[watered down]

Re: Best time to buy?

Originally posted by Rabidfish:<br /> a hint or two to keep the checking account open...<br />Also, invest in the new engine technology(EFI) The extra money spent on the drivetrain can also save you at the fuel dock... <br /><br />Good Luck!

Don't mean to sound stupid buy what is the "new engine technology?" EFI=elct.fuel injection right? but what do you mean about the extra money on the drivetrain? I'm buying in a few weeks so I'm curious...Thanks

 

[QC]

Re: Best time to buy?

Originally posted by watered down:<br />Don't mean to sound stupid buy what is the "new engine technology?" EFI=elct.fuel injection right?

Yes.<br /><br />He means that if you spend a little more on advanced tech in the engine department and even the drive, it can save you money in the long run. I would also say that EFI potentially saves a lot of hassle. Check all of the threads with carb issues. Now there are some who will say that high-tech equals more potential for problems. I completely dissagree. Good high-tech is awesome, bad high-tech is a flippin' disaster . . .