About to buy....

[zekester]

I'm a Canadian interested in buying a U.S. boat, I'm familiar with what I have to do to get it over the border, however...what do I need from the broker telling me the boat is free and clear? The boat is a repossession, (I believe it is) so it's maintenance is questionable. Normally I would make an offer subject to survey and sea trial, but the vessel needs a ton of work of a cosmetic nature, interior and tops. The asking price already reflects this. I just want to cover myself on the mechanicals...It's in the water, and from what I'm told "everything works"...

I take it all would recommend i still make the offer subject to survey and sea trial, and give up the bargaining position of a quick sale vs peace of mind knowing it's ok? Can anyone clarify who's responsibilty it is to ensure the boat is free and clear?

 

[yachtguyannapolis]

if you are financing the deal they should pull a title search, and if you are paying cash you can arrange one yourself. cheap for the piece of mind that it provides.

 

[northern]

We are Canadian and bought a 380 Aft Cabin in the US it is not like Canada for documents. Best to go through a brocker even if you have to pay him. He will get you documents you will not see in Canada. We got Coast Guard letter, noterized bill of sale, financial material proving the boat was clear of leans and a general feeling all was well. We had no problem bring it into Canada.

 

[gman013]

hi ya.. we just imported a boat into Canada from Florida.. my best suggestion will be to not buy the boat unseen and make sure you check out the credentials of the surveyor.
As far as importing into Canada, boat are not like vehicles. They are treated simply as a "personal good". Also, CBSA charges you taxes on your purchase price (US). The value for currency conversion is based on the shipment date. Also, if you can get the owner to complete NAFTA certificate, then you will avoid paying the duty. Form number B232 on CBSA's website. If you contact SeaRay with the HULL number, they will provide you with one. One of the benefits of using a customs broker to clear your goods is that they are not responsible for collecting the PST. Preety easy process. All you will need is a bill of sale and probably some shipping documentation. Finally, if you are buying from a dealer in Florida, you can avoid paying the Florida tax by completing an affadavit and providing documents, within a short time frame, to the Florida tax folks.

 

[Knit-Wits]

I have a 450 EB 2000 for sale if you have any interest. These postings are correct. You would do well to utilize the services of a professional brokerage house who handles documentation on a regular basis. Too many people try and cut a broker out of the deal because they are trying to save money. I have never understood this because in the end, a broker gets you a better deal and handles what a client tends to never have the time or knowledge to undertake. Country to country deals can get a little tedious. Let me know if I can be of assistance to you.

Will
804-337-6666