Find a huge selection of Classic for sale by Birchwood

Classic for sale from Birchwood. Why not have a browse through the massive selection of Classic that we have for sale by Birchwood and see if you can find your perfect boat today!

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Questions to ask when buying a Classic Boat

What is a classic boat?

There is no universally agreed definition of what a classic boat is. However, there are a few things to think about if you are looking to buy one. The age of the boat, quality of design and build are all factors in qualifying a boat as a classic. In addition, you should also consider an individual boat’s history.

Someone who enjoys bringing something back, making it work and enjoying it for what it truly is will take pleasure in restoring a classic boat. There are many different styles of classic boat available. If you are thinking of buying a classic boat, doing your research and exploring the different types of boat available is especially important.

What is your budget?

Once you know your budget and the type of classic boat you are looking for, the first place to go is the internet. You will find classic boats on sale either through private sellers, dealers or brokers.

Using a good brokerage company when buying a boat can have many advantages. Reputable brokers will have a great deal of experience in buying classic boats for customers, enabling them to detect a great deal when they see one and they can help to make the buying process as stress free as possible.

Alternatively, you can buy through a private seller or dealer. You will always get more accurate information on the true nature and quirks of a boat from the owner themselves and they can often be more flexible. Avoid private sellers and dealers that do not have a credible reputation.

What are the estimated running costs of owning a classic boat?

Like with any type of boat but especially important when buying a classic sailing boat, it is not just about the money you pay for it. It is important to factor in the running and restoration costs of a classic boat into your budget. Additional costs for a classic boat can include:

Restoration costs
Surveys
Mooring Fees
Boat maintenance
Fuel and Heating
Insurance
These costs will vary from boater to boater and boat to boat. Doing your research and working out the average running costs of owning a classic boat and how you plan to use it is important.
You will also need to find a place to keep your boat. Some marinas may not have available berths etc and mooring fees will vary considerably.

Has the boat had a recent a survey?

When buying a classic boat, it is especially important that you conduct a professional survey on the boat. This should be done by a qualified marine surveyor and will show any potential maintenance issues, faults on the hull and with the boat’s internal systems and will highlight any issues the boat may have so you have peace of mind that you know exactly what you are buying.

It can also help you to negotiate the price and will be useful with insurance companies, some of whom will not insure a boat without understanding its condition.

What documents and paperwork will you need to buy a classic boat?

Having the correct paperwork in place when you buy any boat is important.
Check all the documents and the boat’s VAT status. You should receive the original VAT paid invoice, which is essential if you want to sell the boat in the future.

Once the survey has been concluded and the negotiations settled, you should receive the proof of ownership, Bills of Sale for the last 5 years at minimum, Certificate of Registry, if any, and proof of VAT status. Keep all these documents in a safe place since they are not easy to replace. Make sure you have all of these in place when you buy..

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