Best deal on used boat?

[coyote]

I've found two used boats with two different dealers. one a "93" 16' Sylvan with "89" 48 hp, side console ($4500). The other a 92 Lund explorer 16' with "92" 40 hp, tiller ($5900). Neither has a trolling. Extras are about equal. Which do think is the best deal? I'm a rookie at buying boats and this would be my first.

Question number two: I have 15 horse long shaft motor, very reliable, should I keep it as trolling motor or sell it and buy an electric?

[rickyp52]

The first thing I would do is go to www.nadaguides.com and check on the book value of the boats you are looking at. They will give you a low, avg, and hi end retail price based on the condition of the boat. I purchased a used boat last fall and I found it to be a very helpful site. Banks use the same guide to determine the loan value of used boats. I looked for many months before I finally found the right deal on the right boat. After going through the process, I would recommend staying away from a dealer and would look to a private person trying to sell their boat. The most obvious reason is price. Dealers are in business to make money. There are many fine used boats for sale by private individuals. Try and educate yourself as much as you can about the product you are looking at. Don't rush into anything. You need to find someone who knows their stuff to help you evaluate potential boats. This could be a friend, a friend of a friend, or pay the local dealer to go over the engine, etc. Being patient and learning as much as I could helped me a great deal. There are good deals on good boats out there. Hope this helps. Good luck.

[Jim]

Go with the explorer I had a 95 explorer and it was a great boat.I had the 40hp,merc.The boat went about 32-35mph.on gps.with 2 guys and gear.Very dry for a tin boat good luck.