2004 280DA

[BrentJones]

Got a quote on a new trade coming in from the boat show. It is a 04 280DA single 496 w/ 5kw kohler genny. They are asking $88,000 and offering $47,500 on my 240SD trade. I'm not sure how much they will move on the boat, but it seems like a generous offer on my trade. I'm thinking they won't move as much considering what they are offering for my boat. They have been saying that with the damage at our lake from the ice storm, demand is going to drive prices up, but they are bringing this boat up from KY. Any thoughts?

 

[MAKC]

I think the best way to look at it is whats the difference you'll have to pay. 40.5K on on 04 280DA is really good. They can play with the numbers all they want with trade in versus retail price. Im doing the same thing right now and all i care about is the difference.

A single 496 will give you plenty of power. The whole single versus twin is a debate that can go on forever and you have to decide whether its an important feature for you.

Mike

 

[Dave S]

Brent

For a bit of a comparison, my dealer has a 2004 with a 496 listed for $95K. It has 170 hours on it.

I know it's been talked about many times before, but if I was buying used I would take the time to sell my old boat first and then try to find that used boat that satisfied my needs. You may be without a boat for awhile, but I have the feeling that your 240 will sell quickly with spring right around the corner. In the end, you can potentially save thousands doing it that way versus trading it in.

But only you can make the call on that one. It does appear they are giving you a "discount" by offering you retail on your 240SD. And if the 280 is in great shape, I would say the deal is fair if you decide to go that route.

Dave

 

[keokie]

I have never had a Kohler genny, but the consensus seems to be the Westerbeke is a better unit. I can definitely say the Westerbeke is quieter.

As far as price, even if the boat is in excellent condition it seems high for a 3 year old boat. I bought my 310 when it was 3 years old (160 hrs) for 60% of what the original owner paid (which was well below MSRP), and it truly is spotless. I mean absolutely brand new spotless. In regards to what they are offering you, I don't know that class of boats as well.

To assess the fairness, look at the MSRP for both boats the way they were equipped new, then look at the percentage they are taking off the value per year of each boat. Keep in mind your boat appeals to a larger market then the 280.

I agree with the previous advice of selling your boat on your own. Then negotiate a deal strictly based on the 280. You can get very good deals with trades, but it is harder. The reason is what you really want is lot of money for your boat, and to only pay a little for the new one. That is a matter of negotiation. You can make it happen, and when you do, you will always feel better about your new 280.

Large purchases are always stressful. Let me remind you, you are the one with the money. I sell in a highly complex corporate environment for a living. It has made buying seem much easier.