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Buying a bass boat should be fun. However, many people get so
frustrated and confused by the endless options and specifications that
they become stressed and overwhelmed. Greene Boat & Motor does not
want your buying experience to be a bad one, so we have put together
some facts to consider before you ever get near the water.
Bass boats are an investment. You are investing your money but you are
also making an investment in time, fun, recreation, saftey, and even
monetary payback. Quality needs to be considered before purchasing any
boat. Always ask yourself, "How long has the manufactuer been building
boats and will they be in business next year to back their warranty?"
Bass Cat and Stratos have been around a long time and build a quality
boat. There will be no worries regarding warranty security when you
purchase one of their products.
Most boats look good new, but be sure to search out the same brand
boat that is several years old. Is the finish still in good shape?
What's the boat worth today versus when it was purchased? Most bass
boat owners trade boats every three to five years. Will you have
equity when you're ready to sell or trade? In other words, will you
boat last as long as the payments? Does the boat have good resale
value? What kind of reputation does the boat have?
Comfort is important as well, especially if you spend a lot of time
on the water. As one pro joked, "Never let your favorite fishing cap
get wet! The boat should have a safe ride, a dry ride, and a
comfortable ride.
It helps to get in the boat. It doesn't matter if it's sitting in
the showroom - just pretend you're on the water. Does the boat "feel"
right? Do you have room behind the steering wheel? Is there a
spacious casting deck? Is there room for all of your fishing rods and
equipment? The boat looks big empty - but how about when you add your
partner and tackle (or your wife, kids, and picnic lunch)? Is there
ample storage? Is it "dry" storage? Also remember that wider is
better the more surface on the water gives you a smoother, safer
ride as well as more room.
Let's talk about performance! We all love to fish but we've never
caught a fish riding 80 mph. But rather you're going 50 or 80, we all
love performance. Does the boat handle rough water and ride well?
When the wind is gusting over 40 mph, will your boat get you back to
safety with no problems? Remember,water has the flexibility of concrete. It's good to know that you have a "safe" boat.
Pride is important as well. Will you be proud when you tell your
friends about your boat? Pride of ownership makes the payments easier
to swallow.
Alright, so you've found the perfect boat. It fits your needs and
your family's needs but what about your budget? Remember that on
top of the sticker price there is gas and insurance. It's great to
have your own boat every weekend becomes a vacation! But with the
price of boats, it's a good idea to have your wife involved. Take her
to the lake for a weekend getaway. Let her have a say on the color you
choose. From experience I can say this often times, wives will go
for more extravagancies than you might have dreamed! And if she's a
part of the purchase, she'll be more tolerant of your weekend
tournaments, as well as more eager to share your fun with you. And if
you win the tournament, well, that's just icing on the cake!
How about financing? Let's say that you've got the green light from
your wife. Let's say that you have found the perfect price. Be
careful don't let the eagerness get in the way of making wise
decisions. I'm always amazed at how many fishermen shop "price" and
then blow it on financing. Greene Boat & Motor works with several
banks. We can have them competing for your business and get you the
lowest interest rates and best terms to match your budget. We not only
give you a great price, but we give you payments that you can afford
while refusing to allow you to bury yourself under payments that last
way longer than your boat. Remember, even one percent in interest
rates can make a difference over the long haul. Let us help you.
What about the dealership? There's more to buying a boat than
price. Can you trust your dealer or is he/she just out to get the
sell? Does the dealer know his/her product? How long has the
dealership been around? Does the dealership have repeat customers? If
so, talk to them! Many times your friends are your best allies when
you need a reference. Does the dealership know how to prep a boat? Do
they have a rigging shop? Even a factory-rigged boat is only as good
as the service department that backs it. We can put you in a boat the
way you like it! Will the service department keep you on the waiting
list instead of the water? Greene Boat & Motor promised to have
your boat fixed and on the water FAST! We offer service by
appointments - not when we "get around to it". We have certified
technicians and proper tools for any job. We can get it right the
first time! We are professional and courteous. Does the dealer have a
shipping department? Suppose you have a tournament on Saturday and
your aerator goes out on Thursday. Can the dealership ship the part
next day? We can! Suppose you have a powerhead failure and you've
paid a $200 deposit for a tournament that's only a week away. Does
your dealer stock back-up powerheads? We do! Does the dealership have
a caring attitude? Will the dealer care about the interest of the
customer and not just the sell? We will! Does the dealership have
inventory in stock?
Okay enough is enough. The bass are waiting. Your fishing fever
is running through the roof. Great! But make your purchase a dream
come true - not a nightmare! Remember:
- Investment
- Quality
- Reliability
- Pride in ownership
- Value & resale
- Performance
- Safety
- Great price and financing
- Service after the sale
- Parts in stock
- Courteous dealer
Find a dealership that is stable, trustworthy, and that will give
you service long after the price is forgotten. Let us help you find
the boat of your dreams. We look forward to working with you.
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