Category: Blog Posts

  • Tips for Selling Your Boat Fast and at Top Dollar

    Tips for Selling Your Boat Fast and at Top Dollar

    Selling a boat can be a challenging and time-consuming process, but with the right strategy and preparation, you can sell your boat quickly and at the highest possible price to a prospective buyer when it comes time to sell it.

    Whether you’re looking to upgrade to a larger vessel, downsize to something more manageable, or simply looking to get out of boating altogether, these tips will help you to sell your boat fast and at top dollar.

    Clean and Detail Your Boat

    One of the most important things you can do to prepare your boat for sale is to clean and detail it.

    This means getting rid of any dirt, grime, or mildew, as well as polishing and waxing the exterior and cleaning the interior. A clean, well-maintained boat will be much more appealing to potential buyers, and it will also help to protect the boat’s value.

    Make Necessary Repairs

    Another important step in preparing your boat for sale is to make any necessary repairs.

    This might include fixing any leaks, replacing worn or damaged parts, or addressing any other issues that might be affecting the boat’s performance or safety. By addressing these issues early, you can avoid potential buyer objections and ensure that the boat is in top condition.

    Get a Survey

    A survey is an inspection of the boat that is performed by a marine surveyor.

    This is an important step to take when selling a boat, as it can help to identify any issues that might be affecting the boat’s value or performance. A survey can also help to protect the buyer and ensure that the boat is in good condition. Additionally, a survey can report what the boat is worth.

    Gather all necessary documentation

    When selling a boat, it is important to have all necessary documentation in order.

    This includes the registration and title, bill of sale, as well as any maintenance records, service records, and receipts for any repairs or upgrades.

    Having all of this information readily available for potential buyers can help to build trust and demonstrate the boat’s history and care.

    Price Your Boat Competitively

    When it comes to selling your boat, price is one of the most important factors.

    To sell your boat quickly and at top dollar, you’ll need to price it competitively. This means researching the market and determining what similar boats are selling for, and then pricing your boat accordingly. Remember, if your sales price is too high, it will be less appealing to buyers, but if it’s priced too low, you’ll be leaving money on the table.

    Take Professional Photos

    A picture can speak volumes, so make sure to take professional, high-quality photos (and videos) that showcase your boat’s features and condition.

    A boat buyer’s first impression of your boat will come from its photos, so it is essential to take high-quality photos that showcase your boat’s features and condition. Hire a professional photographer or use a high-quality camera to take pictures of the interior, exterior, and any other important features of your boat.

    Create a Detailed Listing

    When you’re ready to list your boat for sale, you’ll need to create a detailed listing that includes all of the important information that buyers will be looking for.

    This should include the type of boat, the boat’s make, model, year, length, engine hours, and condition, as well as any other relevant details like the engine type, the number of hours on the engine, and any recent repairs or upgrades.

    Advertise Your Boat

    Once you have your listing created, you’ll need to advertise your boat to reach as many potential buyers as possible.

    This can be done through online classifieds, social media, boating forums, and other online platforms.

    You can also reach out to local marinas, boat dealers, and other boating-related businesses and ask them to post your listing on their website or social media pages. In doing so, a dealer may ask about your asking price versus the blue book value.

    Be Prepared to Negotiate

    When it comes to selling a boat, be prepared to negotiate with potential buyers.

    Be open to reasonable offers and be willing to make compromises in order to close the deal.

    Show the boat to potential buyers

    Make sure the boat is easily accessible for potential buyers to see, and be prepared to give tours, and answer any questions they may have.

    This will help buyers envision themselves using and enjoying the boat, which can increase the likelihood of a sale.

    In conclusion, selling a boat can be a challenging and time-consuming process, but with the right strategy and preparation, you can sell your boat quickly and at the highest possible price.

    Whether it’s Malibu, Southbay, Axis, Cobalt, or Boston Whaler, Valley Marine is ready to help get your boat in top-notch shape today. Need some help with your boat service? Contact Valley Marine’s award-winning team of marine technicians for in-shop or on-location boat service today!

    THIS IS VALLEY MARINE

    We have all heard that old saying… “You are the company you keep.” In everything we do at Valley Marine, our goal is to be the company you keep. That helpful friend you call with a problem. That place you drop by just to say hello and share a laugh. Our dealership is comprised of an incredible team of people, all boaters ourselves, with a common purpose- to give you, our customer, the very best on water. It’s simple really. The Golden Rule. Treat others the way you would like to be treated.

    Thank you for this opportunity to introduce ourselves. Please click on each member of our team to learn a little bit more about who we are and how we got here.

    Integrity. Boating. Company.

    BEST ON THE WATER

    Nebraska’s boating season is too short as it is. The last thing our customers need is to miss out on the precious season while their boat is in for repairs. At Valley Marine we understand this issue. That is why we have a complete service department comprised of six award-winning mechanics to help get you back out on the water as soon as possible.

    Valley Marine is pleased to offer on-site lake service testing for any boat that has been in our shop for repair. We the only dealer in Nebraska to offer this unique service to our customers. For the utmost in customer convenience, Valley Marine even offers a Mobile Service team that can make a “dock call” right to your boat.

    When Nebraska’s precious boating seasons comes to an end, just give us a call. We’ll come pick up your boat and store it inside one of our four spacious storage sheds. Now that’s service!

  • Your Guide to the Best Lakes in South Dakota

    Your Guide to the Best Lakes in South Dakota

    South Dakota is home to many beautiful lakes that are perfect for boating and other recreational activities. 

    Whether you’re looking to fish, swim, boat, or simply take in the stunning scenery, these lakes offer a wide range of options for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. 

    From Lake Oahe, the largest lake in the state, to smaller bodies of water like Sylvan Lake and Iron Creek Lake, there’s something for everyone in South Dakota. And with many lakes conveniently located near national parks and other attractions, it’s easy to plan a trip that combines outdoor fun with other exciting activities.

    Angostura Reservoir

    The Angostura Reservoir is a man-made lake located in the southern part of South Dakota. The lake was created by the construction of a dam on the Missouri River. The lake offers a wide variety of recreational activities for visitors, including boating, fishing, swimming, and more.

    The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including smallmouth bass and catfish.

    Visitors can also enjoy lakeside fun rentals in Yankton, such as swimming and boating.

    Big Stone Lake

    Big Stone Lake is a stunning lake located in the far southeastern corner of South Dakota. The lake offers a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and more.

    Anglers will be pleased to know that the lake is home to rainbow trout, brown trout, largemouth bass, and northern pike. Visitors can also enjoy lakeside fun rentals in Yankton, such as swimming and boating.

    Lake Francis Case

    Lake Francis Case is located in the southern part of South Dakota. The lake was created by the construction of a dam on the Missouri River. The lake offers a wide variety of recreational activities for visitors, including boating, fishing, swimming, and more. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including smallmouth bass and catfish. 

    The lake is surrounded by scenic views and is a popular spot for picnicking and camping, with several campgrounds and RV parks located nearby for those who wish to stay overnight.

    Additionally, visitors can also take a tour of the nearby dam, which provides an interesting glimpse into the history and engineering of the area. The lake is also a great spot for fishing, with species such as yellow perch and northern pike found in its waters.

    Horsethief Lake

    Horsethief Lake is lake located in the southern part of South Dakota. The lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with species such as yellow perch and northern pike found in its waters.

    Visitors can also enjoy boating, swimming, and picnicking by the lake. Horsethief Lake is a great spot for camping, with several campgrounds and RV parks located nearby for those who wish to stay overnight.

    Iron Creek Lake

    Iron Creek Lake is a beautiful lake located in the southern part of South Dakota. The lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with species such as yellow perch and northern pike found in its waters.

    Visitors can also enjoy boating, swimming, and picnicking by the lake. Iron Creek Lake is a great spot for camping, with several campgrounds and RV parks located nearby for those who wish to stay overnight.

    Lewis and Clark Lake

    Lewis and Clark Lake is located in the southern part of South Dakota. The lake is named after the famous explorers Lewis and Clark who passed through the area during their expedition. 

    The lake is well known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with species such as yellow perch and northern pike found in its waters.

    Visitors can also enjoy boating, swimming, and picnicking by the lake. Lewis and Clark Lake is a great spot for camping, with several campgrounds and RV parks located nearby for those who wish to stay overnight.

    Lake Oahe

    Lake Oahe, the largest lake in South Dakota and the fourth-largest lake in the United States, boasts an impressive 2250 miles of shoreline. Millions of visitors flock to the lake each year to take advantage of its vast expanse and wide range of recreational activities. There are 50 state parks scattered around the lake, offering something for everyone.

    One popular spot is the Oahe Downstream Recreation Area, where visitors can view the numerous vibrant butterflies and pollinators in the Prairie Butterfly Garden area. This area is perfect for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. In the winter, visitors can see many bald eagles breeding on the treetops nearby.

    Another popular spot is the Indian Creek Recreational Area, which offers numerous trails and a variety of wildlife species like deer, wild turkeys, beavers, and raccoons for those who enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing.

    Pactola Lake

    Pactola Lake, located near Mount Rushmore, is a beautiful lake that offers a wide variety of recreational activities for visitors. The lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with species such as smallmouth bass and channel catfish found in its waters.

    Visitors can also enjoy boating, swimming, and picnicking by the lake. A popular spot for camping, Pactola Lake offers several campgrounds and RV parks for those who wish to stay overnight.

    Pickerel Lake

    Pickerel Lake is located in the southern part of South Dakota. The lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with species such as smallmouth bass and catfish found in its waters.

    Visitors can also enjoy boating, swimming, and picnicking by the lake. Pickerel Lake is a great spot for camping, with several campgrounds and RV parks located nearby for those who wish to stay overnight.

    Lake Poinsett

    Another great lake to visit in South Dakota is Lake Poinsett. This lake is a haven for outdoor pursuits and offers a wide variety of activities for visitors. Swimming, golfing and, picnicking with loved ones are also popular activities in this area.

    In addition to these recreational opportunities, the Lake Poinsett State Park offers 112 campsites spread across two campgrounds.

    Additionally, Arlington Beach Resort offers cabins for those who want to stay overnight. To learn more about the history of the region, visit the Lake Poinsett Visitor Center and Museum.

    Sheridan Lake

    Sheridan Lake is located in the southern part of South Dakota. The lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with species such as rainbow trout, brown trout, largemouth bass, and northern pike found in its waters.

    Visitors can also enjoy boating, swimming, and picnicking by the lake. A popular spot for camping, Sheridan Lake offers several campgrounds and RV parks for those who wish to stay overnight.

    Sylvan Lake

    Sylvan Lake, which is located in the Black Hills and considered to be the state’s cleanest lake, is the main attraction of Custer State Park. Visitors love taking a seat and admiring the beautiful scenery. Another popular option is taking a boat cruise to explore the charming waters and admire the gorgeous surroundings.

    At Sylvan Lake Lodge, visitors can rent boats, but it is a calm area as only non-motorized boats are allowed. The surrounding granite walls and the lake’s crystal clear waters make for a stunning natural setting.

    Lake Thompson

    Lake Thompson, one of South Dakota’s largest natural lakes, was known as Dry Woods Lake by American Indians in the past. On its northeastern side, the Lake Thompson Recreation Area is open to the public all year round and offers a variety of amenities, including a beach, campsites, a playground, and more. Visitors can take in the beautiful lake views and have a picnic at one of the 45 miles of shoreline’s picnic sites.

    The lake has a surface area of 16,236 acres and a depth of 26 feet. It is home to a variety of fish species, including sunfish, northern pike, walleye, black bullheads, and more, making it a popular destination for anglers. The primary draw for most visitors is the Lake Thompson Recreation Area, which offers five cottages, a playground, a water skiing beach, and 103 campsites.

    Hiking enthusiasts can also explore a number of beautiful natural trails in the area.

    Whether it’s Malibu, Southbay, Axis, Cobalt, or Boston Whaler, Valley Marine is ready to help get your boat in top-notch shape today. Need some help with your boat service? Contact Valley Marine’s award-winning team of marine technicians for in-shop or on-location boat service today!

    THIS IS VALLEY MARINE

    We have all heard that old saying… “You are the company you keep.” In everything we do at Valley Marine, our goal is to be the company you keep. That helpful friend you call with a problem. That place you drop by just to say hello and share a laugh. Our dealership is comprised of an incredible team of people, all boaters ourselves, with a common purpose- to give you, our customer, the very best on water. It’s simple really. The Golden Rule. Treat others the way you would like to be treated.

    Thank you for this opportunity to introduce ourselves. Please click on each member of our team to learn a little bit more about who we are and how we got here.

    Integrity. Boating. Company.

    BEST ON THE WATER

    Nebraska’s boating season is too short as it is. The last thing our customers need is to miss out on the precious season while their boat is in for repairs. At Valley Marine we understand this issue. That is why we have a complete service department comprised of six award-winning mechanics to help get you back out on the water as soon as possible.

    Valley Marine is pleased to offer on-site lake service testing for any boat that has been in our shop for repair. We the only dealer in Nebraska to offer this unique service to our customers. For the utmost in customer convenience, Valley Marine even offers a Mobile Service team that can make a “dock call” right to your boat.

    When Nebraska’s precious boating seasons comes to an end, just give us a call. We’ll come pick up your boat and store it inside one of our four spacious storage sheds. Now that’s service!