Boat Buying Checklist

A Practical Guide for Buyers Before Purchase
Buying a boat involves more than appearance and price. A structured evaluation process helps buyers identify potential risks, understand ownership costs, and avoid costly surprises. This checklist outlines key considerations to review before completing a vessel purchase.
 
Before Making an Offer
Before committing to a purchase agreement, buyers should consider:

• Intended use (recreational, charter, cruising, inland vs coastal)

• Vessel type and suitability for intended waters

• Age, construction type, and known design characteristics

• Availability of maintenance records and ownership history

• Insurance and financing requirements
   

Request and review available documentation, including:

• Title or U.S. Coast Guard documentation status

• Hull Identification Number (HIN) verification

• Maintenance and service records

• Engine hours and service intervals

• Prior survey reports (if available)

Incomplete or inconsistent records should be carefully evaluated.

Visual Condition Review (Buyer Level)
Before scheduling a professional survey, buyers may perform a basic visual review:

• Hull and deck condition

• Signs of impact damage, repairs, or soft areas

• Condition of rigging, canvas, and upholstery

• Engine compartment cleanliness and access

• General corrosion, leaks, or abnormal odors

This review does not replace a professional inspection.

Mechanical & Systems Considerations
Buyers should plan to evaluate:

• Engine type, age, and service history

• Fuel, cooling, exhaust, and steering systems

• Electrical system condition and capacity

• Plumbing, tanks, and through-hull fittings

Mechanical condition often represents the largest ownership cost variable.

Sea Trial Planning
A sea trial is recommended prior to closing and should:

• Be conducted under normal operating conditions

• Include engine operation under load

• Observe handling, steering, and controls

• Identify abnormal vibration, noise, or alarms

Sea trials document operational behavior at the time of testing only.

Professional Marine Survey
A professional marine survey is strongly recommended before finalizing a purchase. A survey provides:

• Independent condition documentation

• Identification of visible deficiencies

• Support for price negotiation or repair planning

• Information required by insurers or lenders

Surveys are non-destructive and limited to observed conditions at the time of inspection.

Closing Considerations
Before completing the transaction:

• Confirm insurance approval

• Resolve agreed repairs or price adjustments

• Verify documentation transfer requirements

• Arrange delivery, storage, or relocation logistics

A structured closing process reduces post-purchase disputes.

Service Area
Pre-purchase survey services are available throughout:

• Chicago & Lake Michigan

• Great Lakes & inland waterways

• Texas Gulf Coast, including Galveston Bay & Clear Lake

• Mississippi River & connected waters

Travel services are available by arrangement.

Schedule a Pre-Purchase Survey
If you are considering the purchase of a vessel, contact us to discuss survey scope, timing, and preparation.

Why Choose Great River & Lakes

• 30+ years marine industry experience

• Reports accepted by insurers and lenders

• Clear, unbiased documentation
  
  Contact us to schedule a pre-purchase marine survey and proceed with confidence.