Boats for sale in Florida on Craigslist

If you are looking for a boat for sale in Florida, Craigslist can be a good resource for finding your boat. Many of the boats for sale on Craigslist are “by owner”, so you typically have more opportunity for negotiation. Prices can be potentially more competitive on Craigslist, but it is important to approach buying a boat on Craigslist with a little more caution.

Clear and effective communication with a boat seller on Craigslist is very important. Craigslist typically allows you to communicate with a boat seller by email, phone, and SMS text message. Often, the boat seller will post their phone number directly in the ad as well.

Before negotiating the price of the boat, ask about the boat’s history. We recommend asking:

• How long have you owned the boat?

• Do you have the title for the boat

• Do you have any maintenance records available?

• What is the current condition and are there is any current issues with the boat?

• Is there any included or missing accessories or equipment?

• Can I do a compression test on the engine with a mechanic?

Once you have negotiated the price, seen the boat in-person, and are happy with your inspection, now it is time to organize your purchase steps. First and foremost, make sure the Craigslist seller has a clean title for the boat.

We outlined a few steps and provided sample documents below to ensure you are safely purchasing a boat on Craigslist in Florida.

• Ask the boat seller to provide a Bill Of Sale. This is a simple document outlining the details of the boat purchase, price, and seller and buyer details. You can download a sample Bill of Sale document here: Link

• The boat seller will have to provide the title to you for signing. This can also be done at a local tag agency to transfer the boat title to you as the new owner. Depending on the type of boat and size, you may have to pay registration fees and tax on the boat.

• A small tip, confirm the private seller’s name is on the title and ask to see his or her driver’s license or ID.

• Ask the boat seller for any boat, engine, or accessories documents, warranties, or maintenance records.