The two happiest days in the life of a boater are the day he buys a boat and the day he sells a boat.
For some people the buying and selling may be fun, but for others it is frustrating. Those who find it frustrating might want to consider the services of a yacht broker to handle details of the search, marketing and closing of the transaction. Most yacht brokers are independent businesses but some are affiliated with or employed by new boat or yacht dealers.

Both buyers and sellers can benefit from the services of a yacht broker whose job is to arrange transfer of ownership. For their services, brokers charge a commission.

Buying Through a Broker

If you are trying to locate a specific type, model, year, size and price range but your search of boat yards and classified ads has not produced the Gulet you want, a broker can usually help.

However, sometimes a buyer has seen only one sample of the Gulet that meets his requirements. A knowledgeable and skilled broker may explore with you several questions to help clarify your intended use and specific yachting needs. With this information, the broker may be able to suggest other types and models meeting your needs.

Interview Questions

Before you contact a broker, ask yourself some important questions.

1. What are you looking for – Gulet, Ketch, Tirhandil, Tour Boat, Sailing Yacht or a Motor Sailor House Boat?
2. Where will you do most of your Sailing? Will you use it in between protected bays along the coast of Turkey, Mediterranean, Ocean or take it to your country for offshore cruising?
3. How many people will be the boat need to accommodate and for what purpose?
4. What is your yachting experience, knowledge, skill and physical ability to handle a boat of this size? Will you always have enough crew with you?
5. How much money can you afford to spend on a boat or yacht? Have you considered the annual cost of dockage, maintenance, haul outs, repairs and replacements, insurance and operating expenses?
6. Where will the boat be berthed while in the water? What is the availability for dry-docking and mooring?
7. Is it for commercial use or private?

When all of these topics have been discussed, both you and the broker will have a clearer picture of your needs. Now the broker can go to work and locate several boats or yachts that meet your requirements. Samples will be presented to you with information ranging from a sheet of specifications to a video of the boat.
If a particular selection catches your fancy, the broker can arrange for a visit to the boat on which he will accompany you. You many decide to make a purchase offer or you may decide to continue looking.

Remember, the broker's job is to negotiate and handle the details leading to an agreement.