Your questions answered

+ Why should I list my boat with City of Sails Marine?

The vital point to make here is that you and your broker must build a good working relationship right from the start. Because we are a small “boutique” operation, our brokers will be able to devote more time and energy to work with you most effectively. Bigger companies will bombard you with statistics, impressive sales figures and flash jargon – but do they have time to listen to what YOU want and deliver a more personal service? Bigger is not always better. Our brokers are experienced at converting interest in your boat into a contract to purchase because they not only KNOW boats – they LOVE boats. They are your representative and markedly reduce the stress for you. You can trust them to get the job done.

+ How do I achieve the best price for my boat?

Presentation. Presentation. Presentation. Have the boat presented clean and tidy. Attend to all those maintenance issues. Do it before listing for sale otherwise offers will reflect these problems and they will come up in pre purchase inspections i.e. you will pay twice! Keep the boat tidy and uncluttered. Keep it smelling good. Keep bilges dry. Your City of Sails Marine broker sales broker will appraise your boat and give the best advice. Call us today!

+ Should I have an agent's sign on my boat?

No doubt about it – a sign attracts buyers! The more people that see your boat for sale the better. A couple of negatives – people will occasionally climb over the boat without the agent and worst of all, they attract other agents – the lazy ones that can’t be bothered listing their own boats! They usually spout a line about having a buyer ready and waiting. These are the worst agents in the industry and we advise you to send them packing!! But above all we say signs are a must.

+ What is a good time of year to sell my boat?

Buyers are looking for boats all year round but generally more active during good weather. School holidays are sometimes quiet. One year tends to be different to the next with no clear seasonal pattern. Your City of Sails Marine Broker broker will have a list of buyers ready to purchase all types of boats at any one time. Contact them today!

+ Will I have to pay any advertising costs?

No. We include all advertising costs as part of our service. In some circumstances we may suggest a targeted advertising package. In this case we go through a proposal and costings with you and get your full approval.

+ Can I still use the boat while it is listed for sale?

Yes. Often it is better for a boat to be used, this keeps all systems working. Remember to keep the boat clean and tidy afterwards. Give the broker notice that the boat will be away from its berth. It’s rather embarrassing to take a client down to view a boat – only to find it’s not there!

+ Are all brokerages equal?

No. Get to know the broker. Sit and chat to him about your boat. Someone who is knowledgeable about boats like yours will make a better job of representing you and promoting your boat’s best features. Someone who is used to selling trawlers is unlikely to be so comfortable with a racing yacht. Have a look at their website, is it modern and easy to use? This is how buyers will view your boat. Do they have good references or testimonials on display? Can you TRUST them? If not find another broker that you can TRUST!

+ What's involved with a sole agency?

The initial listing period should be a sole agency. This allows the broker to put all his/her efforts into the marketing of your boat, secure in the knowledge that he/she will get the best result. A minimum of four months should be allowed.

NB: If you are in the market to buy and wish to deal with a ‘broker of preference’ do not exclude that broker if a competitor is advertising a vessel you may have interest in as a ‘Sole Agency’. Check the validity of the agency first and keep in mind that most brokerages are willing to work together in the best interest of the client.

At City of Sails Marine we believe that Sole Agency listings should get special treatment so we ensure they do!

Special treatment includes:

Lower commission Priority placement on the internet Priority placement in boating magazines Priority placement in our office displays

+ How much information should I give the broker?

As much as possible. Tell them the things you are sure about and the things you are unsure about. The broker will have the experience to make the whole process as painless as possible. The broker needs to know as much as you do about your boat so he can answer all the questions asked by potential buyers.