Used Wake Boats in Oregon

Tips on Buying a Used Boat

Sometimes it can be a stretch to pay top dollar for a brand new boat. As shiny and enticing as new models can be, they can also be expensive. If you're trying to pinch pennies, then a used boat can be a great alternative. Not only will you be paying less, but if you know what you're looking for, you can still get a quality craft that'll feel almost like new. But it's a different kind of ball game, so make sure you're approaching this buying process with the right mindset.

Active Water Sports is dedicated to helping our customers find the right kind of boat for their needs and their family, so check out some of the tips we've provided below and let us know if you have any additional concerns we can help with. We proudly serve Portland, Eugene, Salem, Bend, and all of Central Oregon, as well as Vancouver, Washington.

Budget Out

Like any major investment, you'll want to make sure you've got the funds to comfortably buy a boat. You don't want to sacrifice your financial stability in the name of recreational fun. Just make sure your budget is realistic and covers all the bases.

You'll be setting a range but you'll want to make sure the kind of boat you want and need can be feasibly purchased in that price range. If you're hoping to haggle your way down to a much lower price, you might want to set some more realistic expectations. Maybe you can budge the price a little, but you should be prepared to pay what the seller is asking for, so don't set a range that's going to leave you in a bind.

Also, remember that especially for first-time owners, you won't just be buying a boat. There are other important financial factors to include in your budget, like buying safety gear, water sports equipment you may want, fuel, insurance, boat slip rental, and more. Figure out everything you'll need to buy after (or before) you get the boat and make sure these extra expenses aren't going to leave you in the hole. For all this, you're going to want to do a fair amount of research before reaching the dealership.

Inspect Thoroughly

For used models, in particular, you're going to want to perform a very thorough inspection. This should happen when you're first looking at the boat and when you're getting more serious about buying a particular model. You'll be looking both outside and in and in every nook and cranny you can find to try and spot areas that might be damaged, underperforming parts or parts that might give you a headache in the future, or anything else that might be a concern to you. Even something that looks minor could be a result of a bigger issue lying just beneath the surface, so ask the seller about any problem spots you notice. If you want to go the extra mile for a little extra security, you can get a professional to inspect a model you're getting ready to buy. This person will hopefully catch things that you can't see or don't know to look for.

Test Drive

Just like land vehicles, you'll want to ask to take boats out for a test drive. This isn't just about making sure the used model is running the way it should. It's about finding a model you're comfortable piloting. If the engine is too much for you or if you're worried it's too difficult to handle, don't try to force yourself to get used to it. It'll probably just lead to stressful and even unsafe outings.

Ready to check out some used boats for yourself? Stop by Active Water Sports and ask one of our staff members to show you around the models we have available right now. Let them know what you're looking for in a boat so we can get you one step closer to your next--or first--on-water adventure. We welcome all patrons from Portland, Eugene, Salem, Bend, and all of Central Oregon, as well as Vancouver, Washington.