Here's the low down: (Keep in mind that we're starting from ground zero here - we don't even know how to sail yet! This is just what we've learned up to this point)
- Figure out what you really NEED in a boat - then find the smallest, most affordable version you can handle. It took us 2 years to travel from wanting a motor yacht to a trawler to a catamaran to this monohull...
- Find that boat! As soon as we knew exactly what we were looking for, it showed up. Thanks Universe :)
- Make an offer (- good rule of thumb seems to be 10% less than listing price, but that may be something I've learned in haggling in general)
- Put 10% of agreed upon price down via an escrow account with the Broker. We went back and forth a couple of times before we agreed on a price (this 10% is to be wired to the account in most cases, and completely refundable to you if you change your mind at any time before signing the Acceptance of Vessel form)
- Arrange for a survey/sea trial - find a surveyor that is certified with SAMS or NAMS in case the insurance/financing requires this. Try to get referrals!
- Schedule a haul out at near by marina that coincides with Surveyor's schedule (Duh, they need to coincide, but I had to be told this. Sometimes common sense is not so common.)
- Apparently the broker/seller handles the hiring of a Captain to move the boat for haul out/sea trial
- Arrange financing (if necessary) This will take a few weeks to close - just like a mortgage. They will need a copy of the survey in order to close the deal.
- Arrange insurance (they will also need a copy of your survey)
- Arrange a slip for your new boat at a local marina!
We've completed almost all 10 of these items so far. Just a few more details to be handled and then the waiting part kicks in. Our survey/sea trial is scheduled in a couple of weeks, then closing is a couple of weeks after that. Then we have to get our new floating home home! We are still looking for a Captain for this, but have a couple of options lined up, I think.
I'll be doing another post after closing to list the rest of the steps - after I learn them ;) In the meantime, I DO have photos and videos that I'm hanging onto for later posts. Be patient - it'll happen!
Weee!
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