Why Do I Need a Broker?

Story by Harris & Ellis / July 12, 2023

Author: Patricia and Grant Bowlby Yacht Brokers Harris & Ellis Yachts

From the first tour of the vessel to taking possession of your new pleasure craft, a professional yacht broker is an important part of the boat buying—and selling—process.

Our job is to learn as much as possible about the boats we sell, and we’ll be honest with you about what we find. If there is a known issue with a boat, we will explain the concern and discuss potential solutions with you.

Once you and your broker have found a potential boat, the broker will write up a conditional offer that provides you with the ability to gain enough additional information to make an informed decision—is it the right boat for you?

We’ll go over purchase costs and help you estimate the ongoing operating costs of the boat once you take possession.

We’ll attend the survey and ensure that the surveyor has the access they need to inspect the boat, and we’ll be present for the sea trial to make certain that you have a good orientation of the boat and its systems prior to taking possession.

We’ll confirm that the title to the yacht is clear, and that any existing ship’s mortgages are paid in full before you take possession. We’ll also provide you with all necessary legal documentation to identify the boat as yours. If you need to transport the boat, we have experience with trucking companies and can also advise you if you plan to cross the border.

Finally, on the exciting day that you take possession, our team will guide you through the closing process to make sure everything is ready for you to enjoy your new boat. But it doesn’t end there. Give us a call any time. We love to keep in touch. Which is why we have repeat customers going back nearly 50 years.

Categories: Buying a Yacht, Selling a Yacht

Why do You Need a Surveyor?

Who Pays For What

Featured Listings

Catalina 30 MkIII

30’
Toronto, ON
1995
CAD$ 46,800

Bayliner 3270 Motoryacht

32’
Iroquois, ON
1984
CAD$ 36,000

Moody 419 Center Cockpit Keel/CB

42’
Trenton, ON
1985
CAD$ 125,000

Nauticat 33 Ketch

33’
Hamilton, ON
1985
CAD$ 99,900

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 45.2

45’
Midland, ON
2000
CAD$ 245,000

Custom MOTOR YACHT

68’
El Alamein
2010
USD$ 390,000

Testimonials

George Ayers was terrific to work with over the past few months as I evaluated, negotiated and purchased a CS 30 that Harris & Ellis Yachts had listed in Sarnia. He was patient, thorough and totally professional. I have owned nine sailboats in my 50+ years as a sailor. My experience with George and Harris & Ellis Yachts has been my best boat buying experience to date.

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George did an amazing job of selling our CS 30 sailboat. A caring and compassionate person, he went above and beyond our expectations and never stopped working on our behalf to get the job done. We are forever grateful for his dedication to his work. Please let him know how much we think of him!

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I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the outstanding service provided by Greg. Last October, my husband suddenly passed away due to a heart attack, leaving behind two boats. Greg was instrumental in helping me sell the first boat quickly and at a very good price. As for the second boat, due to my husband's declining health in his final year, the boat had been sitting idle at the dock near our home for over a year. Greg demonstrated the utmost professionalism in cleaning, maintaining, and preparing the boat for sale. He put in a tremendous amount of work, understanding the niche market for this boat, and always kept me informed of his progress without burdening me with the stress of the process. Last week, Greg successfully sold the second boat, and I am very satisfied with the price achieved. His professionalism and confidence in his work gave me a much-needed sense of security during such a difficult time.

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Thank you for all your work in facilitating the sale of our dad's boat. Jake and I really appreciate all the hard work you put into it with the many visits, paperwork, etc. A special mention has to go out to Grant for teaching me how to fold the sails!

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As first-time boat buyers and as foreigners wanting to buy a cruising catamaran in the US, we knew we needed a reliable broker that had our best interests in mind. John Heintzman was just that, and more! He was extremely committed to understanding what we were looking for, gave great advice, and guided us through the purchase process with great patience and knowledge. All in all, we felt very well taken care of.

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I feel compelled to reach out about the absolutely wonderful experience that I have had with Grant and Patricia Bowlby. I completed the purchase of a boat yesterday and I couldn’t be happier. They were so helpful, kind, and patient. This was my first experience with a broker, and I think I’ve found the best.

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I can’t thank Ewan Campbell enough for the super job he did in selling G, making up for my lack of experience in this realm and patiently searching for just the right buyer and a win-win for seller and buyer alike.

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It was a wonderful experience selling A with Jeff Cole’s expert assistance. Thank you for simplifying a complicated process. Your patience and kindness are especially appreciated.

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I just wanted to thank Jeff Cole for all his hard work. He was very professional and effective.

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