James,
Down in the Richmond area, it's more of a buyer's market (that's why I went to Deltaville to get my boat), but up in the NJ/NY area, there's a lot of movement due to Sandy. When I was watching the NY/NJ market more actively, I saw nice boats that were priced appropriately for the market that were snapped up in no time. In 2010/2011, when I was looking for my first boat, I would agree with you, the market was very soft, and boats would regularly sit for at least a year. Even back in September/October of 2012 it wasn't that way around here. But now the better boats get picket up quickly (I had 2 of them that were either sold before I could get out to them, or where another person offered more).
To the OP, I don't think I'd play too many games, unless you're OK missing out on the boat (my budget was low enough that I HAD to be OK with this idea). The story I'm told, and my experience, is that good boats in the 28'+ range are getting picked up quickly. I'm not sure what size you're looking for, but if you find a good boat that you like, offer a fair price, or have a good, rational basis for the price you're offering, and if the seller isn't interested, be prepared to walk away. You can always take the "I know this is low, so I'll keep the offer open for 2-3 weeks, or until I find another boat" approach, too.