How to Buy a Boat Privately Without Getting Burned

Buying a boat from a private seller? Don’t get burned! In this essential guide for first-time boat buyers, used boat shoppers, and boating enthusiasts, I walk you through exactly how to buy a used boat privately—safely and smartly.

This video covers the complete private party boat buying process:
✔️ How to confirm the boat title and ownership
✔️ Why you need a written boat purchase agreement
✔️ The best payment methods for private boat sales
✔️ What to do if there’s no lien on the boat
✔️ How to handle the transaction if there is a lien
✔️ Steps to register your boat after purchase

Learn how to spot red flags, avoid scams, and protect your money. Whether you're looking at a pontoon, fishing boat, bowrider or some other, this video gives you the confidence to close the deal without stress.

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Key Resources Referenced in the Video:
Purchase Agreement Template: https://bit.ly/4cuKQN3
Bill of Sale Template: https://boaterinput.com/boat-bill-of-...
Where to Register Boat: https://bit.ly/4cvk0Ep
Used Boat Shopper Checklists: https://boaterinput.com/free-used-boa...

You can also find a detailed recap of this video on my BoaterInput website: https://boaterinput.com/how-to-buy-a-...

For additional boater tools and resources, subscribe to my free monthly newsletter where I share my secrets as a long-time industry insider and leading research expert in boating.
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Special thanks to Joe Lewis, General Manager at Mount Dora Boats for his help with much of the content included in this video. If shopping for a new or used boat in central Florida, be sure to check them out:

Mount Dora Boating Center and Marina
148 Charles Ave
Mount Dora, FL, US 32757
https://mtdoraboats.com/

Thanks for watching!

Music: Rock Angel by Joakim Karud