[Rich]

Be sure to talk to multiple people to find a good dealer. Most consignments have mulitple costs:

Consignment fee (commission) about 10% to 15%.
Storage fees (they charge you for storage while the boat is on their property)
Gas (as they may take potential buyers out for ride on your boat, you pay the fuel bulls).
Of course, your normal insurance.

Some will allow you to sell your boat yourself and not owe the commission fee. Others want the fee if your boat sells, even if you sell it yourself.

I had a boat for sale as well as purchased a consignment boat from one of the largest dealers on the lake last year. I was flabbergasted as I noted issues and the dealer kept saying "This is a consignment boat, so I can't help you there, if it was one of the boats we own, I could help you". As soon as this occured, I decided NOT to consign my boat with them. As a 'seller' I wouldn't want my boat sold in this way.

In short, if you set a good fair price for your boat, it should sell. I sold mine on Craigs List within 1 month of listing it. I provided good pictures, a realistic and detailed description and was willing to take offers (which I did). In the end I sold my older boat for less than I asked, but in the end I saved a lot by not having to pay for commission, as well as storage, insurance, and additional fuel.

Some dealers may have a better consignment agreement than others. Do your homework and visit and ask a LOT of questions!

In the mean time, while your doing your homework, write it up, take some good pictures, and list it on Craigslist or other online sites.


Good luck!