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Don't let the best boat buys pass you by...
Over ten years authoring this diatribe I’ve spoken often
about the cost of boats and insuring value in your purchase. I have also
discussed fuel costs and all those implications. I will not do so now.
We all know the drill. While all my invectives cautioning frugal boat
selection and economy still hold true, another factor has entered the
equation. On top of (or maybe in spite of) all the talk about “boats
being too expensive” or “fuel costing too much” today’s economic
realities have intervened. Make no mistake, things have gotten tougher
both for the boating industry and for many owners. Then again, the tough
will survive.
You see the way economies work, tougher times for some more often
provide opportunities for others. As we move into the summer boating
season there has probably never been a better opportunity. It could well
be the best chance for you to buy the new or used boat of your dreams.
Trust me, boating is not dead. People have longed to be on the water for
thousands of years and will continue to do so. Boats are among the most
economical “water-front” homes. Nevertheless many are fixated by today’s
economic blip on our historic time chart.
But, there are many boats new and used selling for significantly less
than their valuation was a short time ago. I know of brand new boats
available today for less money than it cost to build them. Replacement
costs will not significantly change. Yes, the pain will be felt by some.
Still buying opportunities are an advantage for both you and for the
seller: whether it’s an owner or a boat company. Those who ignore the
opportunity, remind me of novice financial investors who embrace the
time-honored stock picking technique of “buying high and selling low”.
Trust me, this is not the time to wait for a better opportunity. This is
the time to go boating.
But then that’s just my opinion… |
