Increase the Resale Value of Your Boat With These Upgrades

Increase the Resale Value of Your Boat With These Upgrades

 

The average boat lasts between 10 and 20 years, but there’s a good chance that you’ll decide to sell your vessel well before that time arrives. Some people decide that they no longer have the time or just don’t want to deal with the ongoing costs of boat ownership.

Many others, however, decide that they want to upgrade to an even better boat. Whichever camp you fall in, making some upgrades now will help you enjoy your boat even more and improve your future resale value.

Not sure which upgrades are worth it and which are better to avoid? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are seven boat upgrades to consider this year.

 

1. Add LED Cockpit or Cabin Lighting

If you want to improve the ambiance on your boat instantly, update your onboard lighting. While recessed LED lighting is ideal for large yachts, smaller boats like pontoons will do well with LED lighting strips.

Try adding them under counters, below the front of your seat cushions, and around speakers and cup holders. You can get creative with the style and colour to create a unique and interesting look. Just be careful not to get too wild, especially if resale value is a major concern.

This small upgrade will give your boat a definite “cool factor” and will also make it more energy-efficient. Many of the LED strip lights on the market today simply attach with an adhesive, while others are drilled in to ensure a secure fit. The drilled-in ones will bring you the best resale value.

 

2. Update Your Decking and Carpet

If your boat is more than a couple of years old, it’s likely that the decking and carpet are starting to show signs of wear. Even if you take great care of it, the hundreds (or thousands) of steps it endures, along with exposure to the sun, salt air, and moisture, will take its toll.

In general, you should expect that your flooring will need to be replaced approximately every 5 years. There are options to fit almost every price range. If you have a newer boat, you might want to go back to the dealer and have them custom-fit your flooring.

If your boat is older or your budget is tighter, look for a do-it-yourself kit. This gives you some extra flexibility, too, as you can choose a look that will match your ideal aesthetic.

 

3. Replace or Upgrade Your Canvas

Just like the flooring, the canvas on your boat will take a beating as well. Wind, rain, and sun can cause the canvas to fade, stretch, or even rip. If you’re diligent about cleaning it regularly, it could last a while, but you’ll still need to replace it about every five years.

Canvas that’s brand new or lightly used is worth at least a few hundred dollars, so it’s a great way to add some additional resale value to your boat.

Want to upgrade your boat even more? Increase the height, create a larger enclosure, or add a retractable sunshade.

 

4. Add the Latest Technology

A marine stereo system, some great speakers, and cutting-edge technology will help you get ready to throw the ultimate boat party and will also appeal to the next buyer.

You might think about adding other technology like fish finders, a chart plotter, radar systems, and/or a GPS system. If you’re planning to sell the boat in the next couple of years, be careful not to go overboard. You can still get good technology, but don’t spend too much on the latest, greatest models.

 

5. Make Some Interior Upgrades

One of the biggest detractors from older boats is the interior. Take a good look at your boat’s interior and decide what would make the biggest difference. Some of your best bets are new fabric for the cushions, updated window treatments, new appliances, or a comfortable new mattress.

The more comfortable and updated your boat interior is, the better the resale value.

 

6. Buy a Boarding Ramp

Most boats come with a boarding ladder, but a boarding ramp will make life so much easier. This makes getting on the boat from the beach or a dock a pleasure and makes loading bear and coolers a breeze.

They’re lightweight, non-skid, and are easy to conceal. Boat buyers will appreciate this add-on.

 

7. Add Some Portable Power

Power is a challenge for many boaters, making additional portable power an excellent upgrade for your boat. The last thing you want is to end up with a dead battery after you’ve been running your electronics all day.

A compact portable generator, house battery with a selector switch, or high-capacity lithium-ion batteries are all great options. This will allow you to enjoy your time on the boat while running devices like electric coolers, flat-panel screens, and high-end stereo systems.

 

Increase Your Resale Value Before Summer Comes!

Summer will be here before you know it, so now is the perfect time to take care of those boat upgrades. Not only will you be able to get ultimate enjoyment out of your boat this year, but you’ll also boost your resale value.

Don’t have a boat yet or ready to make the ultimate upgrade? Check out our awesome inventory of brand new vessels! We’ll help you find the perfect boat for your needs and make sure you’re ready to hit the water by the time summer arrives.