Wait, did you say fall is a good time to buy a sailboat? Wouldn’t it be better to wait for spring? Not necessarily. With the world-renowned Annapolis Sailboat Show opening soon, here are six important reasons why a fall purchase can be a smart move.
More selection.
Boat inventory is better now than it has been in years. During Covid, demand was high and supply was scarce, but those days are in the rearview mirror. Boat buyers have more choices now than they’ve had in a long time.
Good price points.
There are plenty of good reasons why fall is a good time to get a great deal on a boat, but here are two.
First, this is boat show season, and that means special discounts. Almost every manufacturer and dealer offers reduced pricing during boat shows. You’re unlikely to find these types of deals any other time of the year.
Second, in the fall sellers are especially motivated to move boats, meaning that buyers often find better prices and more room to negotiate than they do in the spring. Those shopping for a new boat should ask about rebates and other incentives designed to help sellers move out current-year models. Buyers shopping for a pre-owned vessel should inquire about end-of-season price reductions.
Financing and insurance flexibility.
Many boat buyers finance their purchase, and the good news here—interest rates have just come down slightly. Plus, lenders and insurers sometimes offer more competitive terms in the off-season to encourage sales. Fall boat shows are a great place to talk with lenders and insurers about their most competitive rates.
Negotiating power.
With fewer buyers shopping in the off-season, buyers are in a stronger position to negotiate on price, extras, and financing. Add to that sellers are often more willing to negotiate right before the off-season because they’d rather not store the boat over the winter. You might even be able to strike a deal that includes a discount on slip fees or winter storage costs.
Time to outfit and upgrade over the off-season.
Buying in the fall gives the new boat owner the whole off-season to outfit, upgrade, and customize their new-pride-and-joy, putting them ahead of the springtime rush at service yards and marinas.
There’s still time to get out sailing this year.
On the Chesapeake, the weather is generally favorable for boating at least through Thanksgiving weekend. That gives new owners two full months to enjoy their new toy and spend time on the water with family and friends. And local sailors know that fall provides some of the best and steadiest breeze. Plus, there’s no better way to view the stunning shoreline fall foliage than from the water.
Don’t miss out. The water is calling.
Start your search today. If you're looking the best selection of boats for sale, head to the Annapolis Sailboat Show, October 9-12.
