Listing your boat for sale can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time.

It’s a conundrum in our business, that often the best boat to buy is a “one owner” vessel – but if you have had your boat since new, maybe 15-20 years, you haven’t got much experience in actually SELLING your boat.

So, what should you do?

Well, the first thing any good broker will need is your paperwork.

If you have previously purchased from Multihull World we will ask for your ‘Yellow Folder’. This folder will contain your Bill of Sale, chain of title, VAT proof and a document confirming location of the vessel at the moment of Brexit which is now required to maintain UK or EU or non VAT paid status. It is no longer possible for a single vessel to have UK and EU VAT paid status – vessels have one or the other.

Once you have provided your paperwork and identification, our next step is to photograph your vessel.

Typically we will take 100-200 photographs, which we keep in an online file you retain access to. This means that if you have photos you would like to add, you can do so at any time by uploading them yourself.

In preparation for the photographs, it is a good idea to review your vessel from a buyer’s perspective.

• Galley: Is the sink clean and clear of dishcloths/dishes? Is the hob clean? Do the cupboard doors close correctly?

• Saloon: Are the windows watertight? Is the headlining clean and tight to the coachroof? Is the seating clear of clutter? Can buyers easily move around with no clutter? If you have sailbags or items which are extra to the inventory, are these stored out of eyeline? Could you fit a dehumidifier to keep moisture out over the winter?

• Berths: Are these either made up neatly, or are the bunks presented with no bedding or personal effects? Are any windows free of leaks?

• Heads: Have all surfaces been cleaned and free of toothbrushes/towels/loo rolls? Are the seacocks closed and is the WC clean?

• Cockpit: Is the running rigging clean and free of green residue? Have bird leavings been removed and potentially is there a deterrent for birds landing on the rigging? Do all nav equipment screens have covers? Are any cushions stored off the vessel? Are lockers organised and has anything not included with the sale been removed?

• Deck: Are the lines clean and well stowed or tied up neatly? If over winter, are the sails stored, or if left on, is the UV strip or stackpack in good enough condition to withstand the weather? Is any woodwork well maintained? Is access to the accommodation easy? Are any ladders usable? Does the companion-way door open with no issues?

• Engine bay: Free of leaks and spills? If you have any outboard, has it been adequately stored? Are the seacocks off? Is there adequate battery charging to ensure engines will operate for test sailing?

• Bilges: Buyers always want to inspect – are these clean and free of water? If there is water, is it fresh or salt? Can you identify any leaks and rectify these?

This is not an exhaustive list. When presenting your multihull onto the market it is important to remember “you don’t get a second chance at a first impression”.

Taking the time to ensure your vessel is well presented could make the difference between finding a buyer quickly or taking more time, and for a lower price.

At Multihull World we are always available to give you advice, whether you have listed with us yet or not. Please feel free to always drop us a line: sales@multihullworld.co.uk or a call +44(0)1243 377333.