Why Do I Need a Broker?

Story by Harris & Ellis / July 12, 2023

Author: Patricia and Grant Bowlby Yacht Brokers Harris & Ellis Yachts

From the first tour of the vessel to taking possession of your new pleasure craft, a professional yacht broker is an important part of the boat buying—and selling—process.

Our job is to learn as much as possible about the boats we sell, and we’ll be honest with you about what we find. If there is a known issue with a boat, we will explain the concern and discuss potential solutions with you.

Once you and your broker have found a potential boat, the broker will write up a conditional offer that provides you with the ability to gain enough additional information to make an informed decision—is it the right boat for you?

We’ll go over purchase costs and help you estimate the ongoing operating costs of the boat once you take possession.

We’ll attend the survey and ensure that the surveyor has the access they need to inspect the boat, and we’ll be present for the sea trial to make certain that you have a good orientation of the boat and its systems prior to taking possession.

We’ll confirm that the title to the yacht is clear, and that any existing ship’s mortgages are paid in full before you take possession. We’ll also provide you with all necessary legal documentation to identify the boat as yours. If you need to transport the boat, we have experience with trucking companies and can also advise you if you plan to cross the border.

Finally, on the exciting day that you take possession, our team will guide you through the closing process to make sure everything is ready for you to enjoy your new boat. But it doesn’t end there. Give us a call any time. We love to keep in touch. Which is why we have repeat customers going back nearly 50 years.

Categories: Buying a Yacht, Selling a Yacht

Why do You Need a Surveyor?

Who Pays For What

Featured Listings

Catalina 400 mk1

40’
Midland, ON
1995
CAD$ 164,500

Sea Ray 400 Sedan Bridge

40’
Gananoque, ON
1997

Canadian Sailcraft CS 30

30’
Sarnia, ON
1986
CAD$ 30,000

C&C 43

43’
Bowmanville, ON
1974
CAD$ 50,500

De Vries Lentsch 41′ pilothouse motorsailer

41’
Meaford, ON
1965
CAD$ 175,000

Testimonials

As first-time boat buyers and as foreigners wanting to buy a cruising catamaran in the US, we knew we needed a reliable broker that had our best interests in mind. John Heintzman was just that, and more! He was extremely committed to understanding what we were looking for, gave great advice, and guided us through the purchase process with great patience and knowledge. All in all, we felt very well taken care of.

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I feel compelled to reach out about the absolutely wonderful experience that I have had with Grant and Patricia Bowlby. I completed the purchase of a boat yesterday and I couldn’t be happier. They were so helpful, kind, and patient. This was my first experience with a broker, and I think I’ve found the best.

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I can’t thank Ewan Campbell enough for the super job he did in selling G, making up for my lack of experience in this realm and patiently searching for just the right buyer and a win-win for seller and buyer alike.

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It was a wonderful experience selling A with Jeff Cole’s expert assistance. Thank you for simplifying a complicated process. Your patience and kindness are especially appreciated.