Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions2020-11-10T11:12:52-08:00

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? We have answers! Take a look at our frequently asked questions below and please give us a call if you have additional questions!

Will buying an LLC save sales tax on my boat purchase?2020-10-27T11:29:54-07:00

The easy answer is yes.  Yet it is slightly more complicated than that and you will need to hire an attorney for due diligence and closing.

Should I call a listing agent or use my own broker?2020-10-27T11:29:19-07:00

There are plenty of buyers that want to call the listing agent because they feel they will get the “inside scoop”.  Having a broker local to where you are keeping the boat will prove to be worthwhile in the long run.  Also, the numerous benefits of having an experienced broker that gets to know you will far outweigh any possible upside.

Are there better deals on the Great Lakes or East Coast?2020-10-27T11:28:47-07:00

Sometimes there are – the prices are typically less.  Some of the pricing is the differential in freight to the East Coast versus West Coast and that has to factored into the decision of purchasing elsewhere.  Florida, in particular, is a tough climate on boats therefore boats age quicker there than in California where the climate is very mild.

Does being a cash buyer help me make a better deal?2020-10-27T11:28:09-07:00

It surely doesn’t hurt, but probably not.   It is common for boat shoppers of any size and price significance to arrange financing very quickly.  It will need to be the first contingency removed in your agreement to purchase and can usually happen very quickly with the right source.

When is the best time of year to buy or sell?2020-10-27T11:27:30-07:00

Whenever you are ready.  Southern California offers excellent boating year round and boats absolutely sell well year round.  Since any one model of boat is extremely rare compared to any one model of car it is best to buy when the right boat comes along.  It may be a while before another becomes available.

Are there costs associated that I may not be thinking of?2020-10-27T11:27:00-07:00

Sales tax, property tax, slip fees, insurance, topside washdowns, and bottom cleaning are the basics. From there you might consider ongoing maintenance and repairs, upgrades, and of course fuel. The cost of fuel is usually the item you think of least because you are out having fun!

What will the slip cost?2020-10-27T11:26:23-07:00

The costs of moorage varies greatly by location, supply and demand.  Slip prices increase substantially with length so it is not easy to just offer a price per foot.

What is the best website for searching for a boat to buy?2020-10-27T11:25:54-07:00

Yachtworld is the only site that has everything for sale.  There are many websites with boats for sale but only one that everything available is on.

Brendan and the guys at CA Yacht Sales Int’l were very attentive and spent about 2 years answering “ALL” my questions before I bought my first boat … The question and answer sessions haven’t stopped in the four years I’ve owned that boat … I’m sure he’ll be my first call when I “get serious” about the next one. Thank you,

Vlady

I Just wanted to let you know how pleased I am with CA Yacht Sales Int’l and Jim Chamberlain. After many years Jim listened patiently and spent many hours to find the right boat for me. He never gave up.  She is beautiful and perfect and I am looking forward to this boating season and the years to come!!! Thanks

Cheryl

Just wanted to say that Jim Chamberlain was a fantastic broker, professional, extremely knowledgeable, and always prompt in returning calls and keeping us informed through the entire buying process. This was our first boat purchase, and our dream of sailing around the world is now possible.

Steve and Lorian Sanders

I bought and sold my first boat with Tom. Tom sold it in less than a month and I had money in the bank that was almost my asking price. Based on my experience, I had Tom represent me on the purchase of my second boat and it was a complex international purchase. Tom is honest, professional, and beyond knowledgeable with all things boat related. I would not hesitate to use his services again.

D. Smallwood

I had an excellent experience working with Jim Chamberlain to sell my boat.  Jim was patient and dedicated as he walked us through the whole process including marketing, negotiating the sales price, sea trail and survey.  I give my highest recommendation!  If I were to buy or sell another boat I would definitely work with Jim again.

K. Frazer

Whether you are spending a couple hundred, or a couple million on a boat or it is your first, second, or third boat,  you’ll want someone who truly understands what it is you are looking for. I am now putting my trust in his more than 30yrs of yacht dealing to work for the third time. Brendan Dooney of CAYacht sales is the guy I choose. Call him for his expertise and solid representation of your interests in any deal.

 

C. De Went

I have known Tom Nuxoll for over 15 years and have purchased two boats through him.   Tom is my trusted advisor on not only the best boats to consider, but has a higher level of the market knowledge regarding trends and pricing.   Tom’s loyalty  and passion for the business is evident by him sticking with me through my recent two year search and negotiating the best terms on my behalf.   I think this is rare in yacht brokerage and I could not be happier.

J. Lapointe

Just wanted to let you know how pleased I am with  CA Yacht Sales and Jim Chamberlain. After many years Jim listened patiently and spent many hours to find the right boat for me.  He never gave up. She is beautiful and perfect. Looking forward to this boating season and the years to come!!! Thanks

C. Roberts

The well-seasoned team at CA Yacht Sales is NOT just another brokerage…  I hope you too, can experience what it really means to get superior service from an industry not always known for it.  Simply put, I would never buy another boat without his assistance; it’s just not worth it!

JT

Tom has provided invaluable information to me in helping me make a purchase decision. He has also assisted me for the past few years in other boat transactions with mutual friends and has always done it with the highest professionalism in customer service.

Ed

Just wrapped up the sale of my 1978 Baba 30 working with Jim Chamberlain!  Another great experience! This is the second boat I have both bought and sold with Jim – so 4 total deals.  With the knowledge and professionalism of both Jim and Dona Jenkin’s office the process is always easy, enjoyable, and I know things were done right. I am looking forward to my next boat and working with Jim and CA Yacht Sales to find It.

Brian Johnson

Jim,

 I wanted to say thank you for the exemplary service you provided me in purchasing my beneteau 523.  With your assistance I was able to get the vessel at the right price point Through numerous negotiations. Your recommendations for surveyor, vessel documentation, and insurer were spot on. I would highly recommend you to anyone that requests Another brokerage service. Again thank you for all you’ve done

Anonymous

In all the business relationships we have had over the years, Ann and I wanted you to know that the experience with you and your organization has been one of the best. 

Jim & Anna

Given the purchase price of our boat, the distance, the time away from his family and the valuable time away from his office & team, I found this to be extraordinary.  We learned a lot of very valuable information from Tom as well along the way.

J. Thomas
Go to Top