Back

New vs. Used Lake Boats: What Arizona Boaters Need to Know

May. 28 2024 Buy New vs Used Boats By Brooke Wallace

Share

If you're an Arizona boater shopping for a lake boat, one of the biggest decisions is whether to buy new or used. Both options have advantages and drawbacks that are important to carefully consider. To help you make an informed choice, the lake boat experts at Laken Water Sports have put together this comprehensive guide covering everything Arizona boaters need to know.

new lake boat

Buying a New Lake Boat 

Benefits

When it comes to investing in a new lake boat, there are several compelling benefits to keep in mind:

  • Full manufacturer warranty providing peace of mind and protection
  • Latest technology, features and design innovations to optimize your lake boating experience
  • Customization options to get the exact layout, colors and amenities you want
  • No wear and tear, previous owner issues, or maintenance problems to inherit
  • Easier financing options with lower interest rates and better loan terms

Drawbacks

The primary drawbacks of buying a brand-new lake boat include the higher upfront cost compared to used models and the faster depreciation that occurs in the initial years of ownership.

  • Lack of warranty coverage if any major issues or defects arise
  • Uncertainty about how well the boat was cared for and maintained by previous owners
  • Potential for underlying problems or needed repairs that are not immediately apparent
  • Harder to secure financing, especially on older models bought from private sellers
  • Risk of scams, title issues, or misrepresentation of condition when buying from private parties

While a new lake boat comes with a higher price tag and faster initial depreciation, the peace of mind from a full warranty, latest features, customization options, and no wear and tear can make it a worthwhile investment for many Arizona boaters. Ultimately, your budget, boating preferences, and long-term plans will help determine if the benefits of buying new outweigh the costs.

used lake boat

Buying A Used Lake Boat

Benefits 

 For boaters open to considering a pre-owned lake boat, there are many attractive benefits to examine:

  • Significant cost savings, especially on lake boats just a few years old
  • Less depreciation hit since the boat has already experienced its initial drop in value
  • Ability to assess the vessel's history, maintenance records and performance
  • Used lake boats often come fully-outfitted with accessories and gear included in the sale price
  • Potential to negotiate a lower purchase price, especially with motivated sellers

However, buying a used lake boat also comes with some notable risks and downsides. 

  • Lack of warranty coverage if any major issues arise
  • Uncertainty about the previous owner's care and maintenance
  • Potential for underlying problems not immediately apparent
  • More difficulty securing financing on older model used boats from private sellers
  • Risk of scams or misrepresentation when buying from private parties

While a used lake boat can provide significant cost savings and the opportunity to get more vessel for your money, it's crucial to carefully weigh the potential risks and drawbacks. By thoroughly researching the boat's history, conducting detailed inspections, and working with reputable sellers, you can mitigate many of these concerns and find a reliable pre-owned lake boat that suits your needs and budget.

Tips for Finding a Reliable Used Lake Boat

If you decide a pre-owned lake boat is the right choice for you, follow these important steps to help ensure you get a reliable vessel:

  • Focus on lake boat models no more than 10-15 years old from respected brands known for quality
  • Closely review service records and maintenance history to verify proper upkeep
  • Conduct a thorough visual inspection of the hull, engine, electronics and all systems
  • Hire an independent marine surveyor for a professional condition and valuation assessment
  • Take the boat on a sea trial to evaluate performance and check for any issues under real-world conditions
  • Verify the seller has the proper title and ownership documentation
  • Consider purchasing from an established boat dealer to minimize risks and benefit from professional expertise

Work with Laken Water Sports for Your Arizona Lake Boat Purchase 

Whether you decide to go with a new or pre-owned lake boat, working with a reputable dealer like Laken Water Sports can make all the difference. Our knowledgeable staff will help you weigh your options, select the ideal lake boat for your needs and budget, and support you through the entire purchasing process.

At Laken Water Sports, we offer an extensive selection of high-quality new and used lake boats from top manufacturers. Our used boats are thoroughly inspected and reconditioned to ensure safety and reliability out on Arizona's waterways. We also provide competitive financing, extended warranty plans, regular service specials, and a state-of-the-art service center for all your ongoing maintenance needs.

Visit Laken Water Sports Today 

Come check out our current inventory of new and used lake boats and talk to one of our friendly specialists. With our lake boating expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction, we'll help make your dream of owning the perfect Arizona lake boat a reality. Give us a call or stop by our dealership today to get started!