Choosing a yacht broker might be the most important stage in the process of selling or buying a vessel. The question shouldn’t be if to hire one in general, but which one. Many buyers or sellers are concerned with the commission rate of yacht brokers. Yacht brokers are similar to real estate brokers, but their certification is not mandatory depending on their location. For some states in the US such as Florida and California, brokerage certification is a must. However, a broker without the credentials shouldn’t be underestimated, because a long list of successful brokers have achieved top sales by their personal qualities, knowledge of the industry, and experience.
Here are some reasons of why you should hire a broker to sell your yacht:
- It would save you a lot of stress.
- The right broker would help you through the process smoothly.
- Brokers will advertise your vessel on MLS websites where only brokerage companies have access to, like the YATCO MLS.
- They will advertise your vessel on social media.
- Brokers have access to a large database of contacts, including other brokers or other clients who might be interested in the yacht you are selling.
- Brokers know the market and would advise a realistic price reflecting the current trends.
- The right broker will get to know the boat, take pictures and be ready to answer any questions concerning the vessel.
- They will prepare an appealing description to attract clients.
- The broker will be responsible for showing your vessel to new prospects.
- The broker will deal with correspondence.
- The broker will arrange sea trials and surveys.
- Brokers can advise you on aspects such as corporate ownership, loan payoffs, bills of sale, and other documents needed for transferring ownership.
- Brokers can also help a buyer obtain financing and assist with changing documentation.
- Central brokers might sacrifice part of their commission to realize the sale.
- A central agreement means your broker will be fully committed to the sale.
There are two types of broker-seller agreements – Central Listing Agreements and Open-Listing Agreements
A central listing agreement is also called an exclusive listing. In this case, the seller gives exclusive rights to one broker who has their commission guaranteed. Central brokers are also obligated to co-broker the deal in case a broker other than the one selling the boat shows up with a buyer. The benefits of offering the vessel to the market with a central broker are that they would put all their effort into selling the vessel because they have their commission guaranteed. All listings on YATCO.com are Central Listing Agreements.
Utilizing a yacht broker to sell your yacht is the ideal way to about the transaction. There is so much involved, and with their expertise, you can rest easy that your yacht is in good hands. Choose a broker that can help you here, in our broker finder.
