It’s the time of year for boat shows, and many of you may have attended the Topeka Boat & Outdoor Show in early February. For those of you that did, you might be considering the purchase of a new watercraft. Before doing so, remember that purchasing a boat requires significant investment and ongoing maintenance. For this reason, it is important to review your options carefully before making any final decisions. Continue reading to learn more about what you should consider before you purchase a new boat.
New or Used
New boats tend to cost more than used boats, making used boats a popular option among buyers who want to reduce their upfront investment. However, if the used boat you purchase requires repairs or upgrades, you may find yourself spending more on the boat than you originally anticipated. In addition, new boats come with a warranty, while used boats do not. If you are considering a used boat, be sure to evaluate its condition carefully before you sign any paperwork.
Boat Type
Several different types of boats are available, including runabouts, pontoons, sailboats, bass boats and pontoons. The type of boat you should choose depends on your goals, as well as your budget. Compare these options carefully to select the boat that will be best for you.
Boat Size
Boats come in all shapes and sizes. Perhaps the most important factor to consider when deciding what size boat you will buy is the number of people you hope to accommodate when you set sail. You should also consider the steering, storage and transportation implications when evaluating different sized boats.
Motor Type
Different motor types will affect the way your boat operates. For example, you may need to choose between a four-stroke motor and a two-stroke motor. You will also need to decide whether you want to purchase a boat with an outboard motor, inboard motor or inboard/outboard motor.
Dealer
Regardless of the type or size of boat you hope to buy, you will need to select a reputable dealer to facilitate the purchase. Keep in mind that not all dealers provide the same services. Before you select a dealer, be sure to read reviews so you will know how past customers felt about their experiences. The dealer’s location, pricing structure, and after-purchase services are also important.
Be Sure to Purchase Boat Insurance
Many new boat owners neglect to purchase an appropriate insurance policy to protect their new investment. Unfortunately, your boat is unlikely to receive the protection it needs from your homeowner’s insurance policy. Most Topeka homeowner’s insurance policies will only cover a limited amount of physical damage to your boat, and any coverage you receive will depend on how the damage occurred. With regard to liability, these policies are also limited. In some cases, your boat may not have any liability coverage at all under your homeowner’s insurance.
To ensure that your boat is well protected, you need to purchase a separate boat owner’s insurance policy. An insurance agent with experience in this field can help you select the policy that is best for your new boat. To learn more, please contact Integrity Insurance Agency today.
