[TrueBlue]

Sailormon6,

Certainly, a yacht broker is needed during the sales transaction between seller & buyer, that goes without question. Whether representing you or the seller, he/she will assist in negotiation communications and expedite the contractual transactions.

However, once you know the boat search drill, do not trust someone who makes his money by selling boats to take control of the negotiations; his/her fee is a percentage of the selling price . . . this isn''t rocket science here my friend, simply common sense.

Once you have narrowed your search (yachtworld.com), my best advice is to locate a certified surveyor who can demonstrate successful experience with the boat you are focusing on.

Find and ask people who have bought that particular brand and year of boat what to look out for; interview several surveyors, preferably in YOUR area (surveyor travel is expensive . . . trust me) before deciding who to work with. Find the best professional specializing in that particular boat. What may seem to be an expensive surveyor''s flat-fee will reduce surprises during ownership AND will assist in leveraging the final contract price.

The surveyor is your only hired gun. Build a strong relationship and pay him well. His written report is the finest negotiating investment in the deal. Consider this . . . your loan and insurance agents trust his opinion more than that of the biased yacht broker.

The broker gets his ten percent irregardless of your satisfaction. What incentive does he have to lower the sales price?

Steve