purchasing used boat ???

[rickksan]

I have been shopping for a used boat priced from 9,000$ to $20,000 recently I found a 2004 four winns 180 open bow with 4.3l volvo 6 cyl eng. removeable carpet bimi top sirrius satellite/ cd player. very clean with only 14hours on boat. the are asking $18,900 plus tax, liscense etc. They said they could get me out the door tax etc. and add a new wakeboard tower that they will paint two tone to match the colors of the boat. Is this a good price it's a little more than I wanted to spend but this boat seems like it's brand new. I am curious what a new similar model would cost out the door. I have seen quite a few boats simiar to this one just not as new or clean. For instance they have the same four winns that is a 1997 still pretty clean has 100 hours and they are asking $12,900 plus tax etc. should I take a chance on the older model to save cash? <br />Thanks!

 

[JRJ]

Re: purchasing used boat ???

My neighbor has '04 Seaswirl open bow,V-8 Volvo low hours,no tower,toys @20,500 asking. Just to compare. Very good condition.

 

[agrazela]

Re: purchasing used boat ???

I assume these prices include a trailer; do they include any kind of warranty?<br /><br />You will lose about the same amount in depreciation (say, $7k to $8k) over 5 to 7 years on either boat at the prices you've been quoted; therefore, if you can afford the 2004, it is ultimately just as good a deal. Plus it will be easier to sell in 5 to 7 years (newer, with wake tower). You wouldn't be losing anything by going with the 1997 at these prices, but you ultimately wouldn't be gaining anything either.<br /><br />As for the quotes:<br /><br />The quote on the 2004 is little high, but not unreasonable. $17k would be fairer, even with the addition of the wake tower.<br /><br />The quote on the 1997 is too high. In order to truly consider it a money-saving alternative, $8k to $9k is better, so that you are losing considerably less (say, only $3k to $4k) in 5 to 7 years at resale time.<br /><br />All these numbers are supported by NADA used boat book values my zip (92123).<br /><br />If you've got cash in hand, start the bidding at $16k for the 2004 or $7500 for the 1997.