In 2016, there were approximately 11.9 million registered boats in the United States, a number that’s increasing exponentially with greater interest and younger buyers. New or used pontoons for sale are recreational boats people love because they make perfect sunny weather leisure vessels.
Buying new or used boats can be quite the process, but we’re going to let you in on some knowledge that boat veterans keep to themselves. Boat shopping in the winter might be the best idea you come across. These are a few reasons that winter boat browsing could be a lucrative option for you.
Shorter lines
During the winter, the majority of people aren’t out looking at boats. They’ll wait until late spring or summer to join the thronging masses to try and spring some deals on new and used pontoons for sale but won’t score the sale of a lifetime. During the winter, boat dealers have more time and more patience to talk you through exactly what you’re asking, what you need, and what is best for your interest and budget. They’re not selling to as many customers during the winter, so they’ll likely be more customer service oriented and flexible in order to make the precious few winter sales they’re able to.
Ample research time
Because the demand isn’t as high for boats during the offseason, you have more time to research a future purchase. Perhaps you’re not going to buy a boat in the middle of January, but you have the time to weigh your options and make thoughtful comparative analyses so that you’re ready to purchase once the weather warms up.
End of season closeout
No boat dealer will tell you this to your face, but they have to pay to store the boats they don’t sell. Boat storage is expensive and winterizing a fleet of boats is even more expensive. Getting into a boat dealer just before the season demands that they drop serious coin on storage and winterization, they’ll be much more willing to make bargains to take boats off their hands. But, shh, you didn’t hear that from us.
If you’re looking for a pontoon boat for next summer, start doing your research and perusing during the winter. At the very least, you’ll gain the knowledge you need to make a smart boat purchase later in the season and, hey, you might just find the perfect boat for the right price before your eyes.
