By: Stewart Wolfe ADVERTISING WORKS First start by placing ads in local boating websites and publications. If you have a large boat that was a limited edition model or a more customized yacht that buyers will likely travel far to see, use regional and national websites as well as ads with unlimited amount photographs and if possible videos aloud of your boat. This will initially draw more traffic your way and maximize your chances of selling your boat. Rent at some highway –side lot where hundreds of pass-by cars see it-at least more so than in your driveway. Also try internet sites such as uSold.com (www.uSold.com )The newest and one of the greatest way to sell a boat in today’s market.   STARTING POINTS Starting the engine and warm it up an hour before a prospect comes to see the boat. a dead battery or balky start-even for an excellent engine-will turn a buyer off. WAXING POETIC Look is important, so grab a can of pledge-spray-on furniture wax can be applied and wiped off quickly and easily. The gleam doesn’t last more than a day, but it’s perfect for the prospect that calls and says he’ll be by in an hour EMPTY PROMISE Make sure that stowage areas in your boat are empty. You can then remark how spacious they are. It looks a lot better than having them jammed and overflowing with your gear. DAMAGE CONTROL Sure, if your boat is pristine, then you should get it detailed professionally. But if your boat is in just good-to-average condition, forget the fine points and focus on the more glaring blemishes.

Remove the trust stains bleeding from fittings with compounds, apply new tape over a shredded boot stripe, degrease the engine, and clean the bilge. Is the cabin musty? Place some air fresheners in hidden spots to add a bit more appeal. FOGGED OUT Is your boat bottom painted? A fresh coat will make it look sharp .Also use spray paint to touch up your outboard or stern drive skegs where the paint has worn off. TIME TO TEST Remove the canvas and stow everything ashore but the safety gear –you wouldn’t want to get caught short if the coasties stopped you for a spot check. Go light on fuel and water too, your boat will plane easier, handle more nimbly, and hit a faster top end. Limit the sea trail to the buyer only, for the same reasons. Also, having all his friends and family aboard will make the boat fell less roomy. BOUND FOR GLORY Have all title, registration, extended warranty, and, if available, service records on hand in a binder. It not only looks impressive but also makes you look organized and professional. REAL NUMBERS Figure out your bottom-line price well in advance of meeting the first buyer. Don’t forget to tally the cost of advertising, storage, and maintenance, as well as the time you lose while your boat is for sale. GAG ORDER Do NOT reveal your bottom-line price on the phone to someone who hasn’t seen the boat. Before a buyer sees your boat, he or she has no emotional investment. Plus, buyers on the fence often have friends call as “new prospects” in an effort to trip you up. GETTING PAID Cash is king. Checks are fine—once they clear. So-called bank checks are not as good as cash. All these do is certify that the buy has the amount on account on the date of issue. Plus, they can be canceled as easily as a personal check.