How to Choose from the Used Pontoon Boats for Sale

June 28, 2024

If you’re looking for used pontoon boats for sale, you should always be vigilant of the latest deals. Since the market for used pontoon boats is determined by people who have sold or are selling them, you might be wondering: is this being sold because it’s not needed anymore, or because it’s not a good watercraft?

Here at Kooper’s Marine, we have years of experience sifting through the best deals on used pontoon boats, and we always look at the boats we purchase with a careful eye. Today, we’re going to be discussing how you can determine which boats are quality used boats for sale.

Why Do People Buy Used Boats?

Let’s face it: used boats don’t always have the reputation that brand new boats have. That said, buying a new boat isn’t for everyone. Like cars, boats are released yearly, with different models for every year. While purchasing new models can be exciting, it also comes with risks. Being the first to buy a model of boat means you’re one of the most likely people to experience any issues or defects that come with it.

By contrast, buying a used boat means that you can select a model that’s already been tested by thousands of boaters in all different climates. In essence, you know a little more about what you’re getting with a used boat.

Additionally, there’s one more key benefit of purchasing used pontoon boats: price. It’s a simple fact that new boats can be significantly more expensive than used boats, making for a steeper initial investment. On top of that, new boats share an unfortunate trait with new cars—the first time you take it for a spin, the value decreases significantly. By contrast, most used boats have already experienced their steepest price drop (which you can take advantage of) and will decrease in value at a much slower rate from there on.

Qualities of Ideal Used Pontoon Boats for Sale

Now that we’ve discussed the benefits of buying used boats, let’s get down to brass tacks: how can you tell which used boats are the best deals?

1. Investigate the Boat’s Condition

Naturally, the first thing you’ll want to check for any boat is its condition. Seek answers for a few critical questions, like:

  • Are there any signs of damage (cracks, dents, patches, etc.)?
  • What’s the condition of the engine? Does it run well?
  • Has the boat been in any major accidents?
  • Did the previous owner treat it well, or treat it roughly?

2. Compare the Cost to the Market Cost

Check out the price of similar used pontoon boats for sale online and in your area. If the boat you’re considering costs more, ask what sets it apart from the rest. If it’s below, then be mindful of any issues it may have that you haven’t discovered yet.

3. Check out the Interior

If the interior of the pontoon is in good condition, it could indicate that the previous owner either didn’t use it much or took good care of it. By the same token, a worn interior may indicate that it hasn’t been well cared for. In either case, be mindful of refurbishment costs and look for any signs of:

  • Mold
  • Leaks
  • Damp Spots
  • Cracks

Any of these signs, if not treated properly, could indicate or escalate to a much more serious underlying issue.

Check Out Used Pontoon Boats for Sale at Kooper’s Marine

Here at Kooper’s Marine, we maintain high standards for all of our watercraft—new and used. For more information on our inventory or to get help choosing the perfect boat for you, our team is here to help. Click here to contact us today!