Important Questions to Ask A Dealer Before Buying a Boat

08 Aug 2024

Quintrex boat for sale in a dealership.

So, you’ve finally decided to buy a Quintrex boat; after all, you’re going to make your dreams a reality. So, you go to a boat dealer and shop for boats, however, you’re not sure how legitimate their business is or how will they assist you in buying a boat.

This issue can be resolved if you ask questions to the boat dealers, after all, it’s their duty to answer all your concerns and questions. The catch is knowing what questions to ask. Asking the right questions will help you decide if the dealership is the one where you’ll be buying a boat or not.

Here are some questions you need to ask a dealer before buying a boat:

How long have you been in business?

We all want to deal with a business that has been around for a while. A business that’s survived economic recessions, pandemics, etc. This is a great way to know that a boat dealership is going to be around in the run long because of its longevity. This means that they already have loyal customers who have been patronising their business for a long time.

For how long have you been an XYZ brand name dealer?

Asking them this question lets you know how knowledgeable they are about the boats they are selling and their product lines, models, and their processes and procedures.

Are you a certified dealer?

Make sure the dealer has the necessary certificates and business permits that show they are legally operating their business.

Will you help me learn about my new boat?

Dealerships are willing to extend their expertise to you and even help you out in knowing and familiarising your new boat. A dealership that cares about you will make sure that you’re settling well with your boat and that you get to operate it and take care of it properly.

Do you offer delivery services?

Don’t forget to ask this question before you go through with the sale. You don’t want to go through the hassle of buying a boat and having to hire a U-Haul or any service trailer because the dealership doesn’t offer delivery services.

Can you help me with financing?

Boat financing is a big part of the buying experience for you as a boat buyer. After all, this is where the business happens. Dealerships are aware that financing can be tricky so they are more than happy to assist you in getting every financing process in order and do it simply to make sure the whole process goes smoothly.  Aside from that, dealerships can also assist you in registering your boat; this can be a hassle process at times.

What days are your service shops open? And are you marine mechanics/technicians accredited?

Bringing a boat for repairs or inspection to the dealership can be a hassle because you have to set aside some time and resources to bring the boat. Ask them what days they are open, what their business hours are, and if their marine specialists have the accreditations and certificates that make them qualified to give you advice, service, and repair your boat and your boat engine. This is important to know because you will find out if the dealer’s staff have gone through training for the particular manufacturer they are a dealer of.

Do you service all the products you sell?

Most dealerships service the boats, boat engines, and even trailers that they sell, but not all do. Fortunately, dealerships that can’t service one part of a package or another often have established relationships with nearby businesses and other marine shops that do. Make sure to ask for details about this.

Is your dealership involved with the local community?

This will give you some insight into what type of boat dealership you’re dealing with and whom they promote and prioritise.

Keep in mind that these are not the only questions you should ask your boat dealer. You can also ask additional questions that come to your mind. Dealers usually welcome any type of question and are more than willing enough to give you honest answers.

 

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