Thoughts on brokers and boats?

[TheNomadTrip]

So I'm looking for a catamaran, my ideal price dropped a bit to the $150K (ish) range. Fully kitted I could go a (tiny) bit higher.

1) I have a broker, I feel like he's a pretty good guy, but I'm wondering if it's OK to poke around for another broker? I ask because at this price point, I don't think I'm commanding much of his attention.


2) Pending a "yes" to the above question... Does anyone have any recommendations for a broker that's a real hustler and does cats (at the lower end of the spectrum)?

3) I feel like most cats currently on the market are asking 20% more than they're worth (generally). If not, it seems like they go very quickly - which seems to confirm my belief.


If it helps at all, I'm looking to cross oceans and am OK with almost any boat that'll do that safely. No family, maybe a girlfriend for a short period of time. I'm more interested in space than performance and would prefer to stay away from project boats (but don't mind putting in some work, if the price reflects that).

Thanks in advance!

[Newcatcruisers]

...may have a good lead. My "mentors" SA couple who have sailed last five years in cat up to madagascar/south america/carib are looking to sell.(New grandkids!) Their boat is parked in Saintsimons and is not yet listed. Its a well set uo go anywhere boat that would fit the bill Pretty sure its in your range. They are flying into USA in next few weeks. Neat people,been fantastic teaching me and family the ropes and very honest.

[djmarchand]

Where are you located? Unless you are in Ft Lauderdale, a $150,000 boat sale would be desirable for any broker. The commission paid to him even as a co-broker represents a month's salary in many parts of the country.

Sit down with that broker and tell him that you will work exclusively with him, he will get his part of the commission on any boat that you buy, but you expect his attention in return. If that doesn't work, find another broker.

David

[TheNomadTrip]

Originally Posted by Newcatcruisers

...may have a good lead. My "mentors" SA couple who have sailed last five years in cat up to madagascar/south america/carib are looking to sell.(New grandkids!) Their boat is parked in Saintsimons and is not yet listed. Its a well set uo go anywhere boat that would fit the bill Pretty sure its in your range. They are flying into USA in next few weeks. Neat people,been fantastic teaching me and family the ropes and very honest.

PM sent

[s/v 'Faith']

Originally Posted by TheNomadTrip

PM sent

You would be wise to keep any broker out of the deal.... There are only two ways it can go with a broker.. The seller pays more, or the buyer takes less. Usually it is a combination of the two...

[Sailing Cowboy]

Originally Posted by djmarchand

Where are you located? Unless you are in Ft Lauderdale, a $150,000 boat sale would be desirable for any broker. The commission paid to him even as a co-broker represents a month's salary in many parts of the country.

Sit down with that broker and tell him that you will work exclusively with him, he will get his part of the commission on any boat that you buy, but you expect his attention in return. If that doesn't work, find another broker.

David

Great answer and the correct answer.

[TheNomadTrip]

Originally Posted by djmarchand

Where are you located? Unless you are in Ft Lauderdale, a $150,000 boat sale would be desirable for any broker. The commission paid to him even as a co-broker represents a month's salary in many parts of the country.

I'm actually in Ft Lauderdale now (usually in Austin, TX), the broker is based in Ft Lauderdale and does a good business in cats outside of my price range. I'm certain of it.

Originally Posted by djmarchand

Sit down with that broker and tell him that you will work exclusively with him, he will get his part of the commission on any boat that you buy, but you expect his attention in return. If that doesn't work, find another broker.

David

Good advice, will do. That said, it's become clear that his business has picked up. Which means I may soon be making the decision: find another broker or diversify. Is the latter unethical?

[Sailing Cowboy]

Originally Posted by TheNomadTrip

I'm actually in Ft Lauderdale now (usually in Austin, TX), the broker is based in Ft Lauderdale and does a good business in cats outside of my price range. I'm certain of it.



Good advice, will do. That said, it's become clear that his business has picked up. Which means I may soon be making the decision: find another broker or diversify. Is the latter unethical?

You are free to use whatever broker you choose. Your not bound to them if you feel you are not being represented properly. Just don't use him and another. That would border unethical.

[TheNomadTrip]

Originally Posted by Sailing Cowboy

That would border unethical.

The exact answer I was looking for. Thanks.