New to this....

[Hudson Force]

I have a 1973 boat that I've had for 28 years and I continue to maintain it well, upgrade and refit. It might be a suitable choice to purchase an older boat for less and factor in the cost of a new engine and some rigging replacement. On the other hand, with patience, there is a great opportunity to find older boats that are well kept. A friend at my current marina purchased a 1972 34' Bristol that was very well maintained and with a complete newer inventory for 11.5K! There's a late eighties Catalina 30 sitting here, ugly with no cosmetic care, for sale, but the owner is burdened and not presenting it. Local searches on the docks can bring up many inexpensive opportunities. Some would be anxious about buying such a boat, but the cost of a professional survey can reveal some pearls under the dirt and clutter.

[Sandrat]

If would be great to pay a fair price for an older yacht that's been been well cared for. The older yachts have more character and, from the few I've seen, have more durable (read "real wood") interiors. My biggest concern is getting one of those, "are you sitting down?" moments when a very expensive, unexpected repair is found. I've had that happen before and it's not fun. To me, the survey is so important and finding the right person to do it is critical. I won't hold back on that and will be asking for advice on that when the time comes. I hope I can have the ability to walk the docks and look for good deals. Much better than the classifieds!

[Eeyore0072]

When I'm ready, I plan to surf the classifieds first, then walk the docks. I'm hoping it will be more efficient that way. I'm also willing to travel to find the right boat. At least I think I will be.