Brokerage Services

 
Why Broker Your Boat With Us?
Over $27 million in sales & 600 SOLD boats!

Click here to broker your boat now!
SKIPPERBUDS.COM
Pictures, specs and a marketing statement are posted on our website and updated daily for easy access to all potential buyers. Our boat notifier lets customers know about specific boats that have come into inventory. Check SkipperBuds.com for listing examples.

FEATURED BOAT LISTING
On the front page of SkipperBuds.com we are able to feature pre-owned boats for our brokerage customers.  Ask your sales person today for more information about this premium advertising space.
 
THE INTERNET
Your boat will be posted with national brokerage listing companies such as: BoatTraderOnline.com, UsedBoatYard.com, iboats.com, UsedBoats.com, BoatBuys.com, PowerandMotorYachts.com, BoatQuest.com, iboats.com,  Boatsville, Lakeland Boating, Boats.com and Yacht World showing all of the available options and features. This allows consumers world wide to find your boat through co-brokers and other websites.

OUR DATA BASE
Our own internal system holds over 200,000 potential buyers.  We can create targeted marketing campaigns for your boat through systems reporting.  We can find a potential buyer from type, size, manufacturer and other qualifiers.  It also gives us quick and immediate access with real-time updates for all our sales staff and locations looking to sell your boat.
   
  
FULL SERVICE DEALERSHIPS
SkipperBud's has 22 locations throughout the Midwest. Not only can we sell your boat, but we can help secure the best marine financing in the industry through our relationships with banks and lenders.  Plus other services; transportation, maintenance abd repair, storage, drystack, slips and more.  We are a full-service dealership who can make your selling experience simple and hassle-free. Whether you are buying or selling, we can offer nearly all the services you will need all in one place.

ADVERTISING
Aside from local advertising and websites, we offer an optional bonuses. For a small fee, we can add your boat to any of a number of publications from trade magazines to our own SkipperBud's boat show publication or feature your boat on the front page of our website..      

BOAT SHOWS & PROMOTIONS
We offer a full brokerage board display at most of our boat shows and promotions. Your boat may not be there, but the buyers are here to see it.

SHOWROOMS
Each of our dealerships displays brokerage listings with pictures and specs.  With a regular traffic flow throughout our stores, your boat will have immediate exposure.  Your boat will be display at the location you where you listed your boat. 

STAFF
Your boat will be shown by over 50 knowledgeable and professional individuals who will help to facilitate the sale as quickly as possible. You can be reassured that your transaction will be handled by all our staff with complete professionalism and reliable follow-up.
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP SELL YOUR BOAT & OTHER HELPFUL REMINDERS: 
Price
Don't under-estimate the value of your boat...but make sure it's priced right. Your sales person can provide you with a number of different values to make sure you are in the market from book value to what comparable vessels are selling for.

Appearance
Want to get the most for your boat? Make sure your boat is clean - and keep it clean.  Appearance is the first thing a buyer goes for, and most can't get past it. You may have an incredible boat at a great price, but most customers won't stop to take a peak if it isn't clean. You may want to look at a weekly cleaning service to keep the appearances going. First impressions go a long way!

Inclusions & Exclusions
We cannot be responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items, so please remove personal items and items that are not included in the sale. It alleviates confusion and problems down the line. We also recommend gathering all of your owners manuals in anticipation of the sale, if they are not already aboard your boat.
           
Location
Make sure your boat is accessible. The best exposure for your boat is with us. We offer a number of slip and storage alternatives at reasonable prices. If your boat will not be accessible due to use or if it changes locations, please keep your sales person informed to alleviate frustration for a potential buyer. Lastly, make sure your sales person has full showing preferences and access to keys.
 
  
Condition
Make sure your boat is in good running condition and is well maintained, as most prospective buyers will want to have a test ride before purchasing.  Problems during the test ride greatly reduce the chances of sale. Make sure you continue with your normal maintenance and alert your sales person to any changes of condition throughout your listing.
         
Sea Trial
Be prepared for a potential buyer to want to sea trial your boat. Make sure your battery is charged and the boat has gas in it.

Paperwork
Make sure you have your paperwork in order and are ready to close at the drop of a hat. During the boating season, buyers can be restless and may walk if they can't boat by the weekend. You will also want to make sure your sales person has the ability to reach you at all times, day and evening. If you do not have a fax machine available to you, it may be best to find a service local to you in preparation for the sale.

Proceeds & Payoff
In the event that your proceeds are less than your loan payoff, be prepared to furnish the difference in certified funds or cash prior to closing. We cannot close on sales without this.

Just a reminder:
Remember to keep all loan payments, insurance and maintenance up to date until the sale of your vessel has been completed.    
           For more information on listing your 
     boat with us please call (800) 636 B O A T.