What a tragic end to one of lifes' dreams....boat ownership!
Very disturbing that potential boat owners are actively being advised against a pre-purchase inspection by self centred brokers.
It was sad to read the purchaser was advised by the broker that a cheap boat was not worth spending money on, to obtain a survey. That ignorance totally ignores the concept that a boat, regardless the value, can be a very dangerous (not to mention expensive) investment if not designed, built and maintained correctly.
That
cheap boat cost that poor person, both his parents lives. The boat may have been cheap, but his parents were priceless.
A word of warning to all potential purchasers........don't listen to salespeople who advise a survey is not warranted. Demand your right to obtain an independant survey inspection, before you part with your money. Make all contracts subject to a satisfactory pre-purchase survey inspection by an independant marine surveyor.
If a broker doesn't like this clause, walk away. The only reason a broker would object to a potential purchaser fully understanding the actual condition of a boat is if the broker knows there are problems, which may impact upon his/her sale.
The reality is, the boat may well be a good buy, even when you are aware of the problems, but the key is that you then know the issues and you can rectify them before they injure someone, or cost you considerably more! As an added incentive, you can then take those issues into account when negotiating the purchase price.
Anyone who wishes to read the full coroners report,
here is the link.
