A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words...

"Can you send me more pictures?"

"Got any better photos?"

"Do you have any pictures of the...?"

If you've ever tried to sell something online, I'm sure you've heard some variation of the above questions.  In the global boat market, these are common questions as buyers in other states, and sometimes other countries, try to make major purchase decisions based largely on photographs.  The ability to reach buyers across the world is one of the biggest advantages to using a yacht broker, and it's the broker's job to make sure your boat is as attractive as possible.

When looking at dozens of possibilities, buyers are much more apt to be drawn toward a nicely photographed listing as opposed to one that's carelessly snapped with a point-and-shoot.  When poor photos are taken, it can make even the nicest boats look dingy or dirty.  A good quality photograph will show more detail, better color, and give the buyer something to get excited about!

I've taken a few photos showing the difference between a Nikon DSLR and a Nikon point-and-shoot.  The DSLR is even one of Nikon's more basic models, but the jump in quality is amazing.  The boat is one of my newest listings, a 2004 Meridian 381 Sedan.

DSLR  /  P+S

DSLR  /  P+S

DSLR  /  P+S

The photos on the left were taken with the DSLR, and the photos on the right were taken with a point-and-shoot.  The first thing you should notice is how much better the color quality is.  In the photos on the left, the wood looks brighter, the lighting is good, and the upholstery looks much nicer.  You'll also notice how much wider the field of view is in the DSLR photos.  This gives the buyer a much better idea of the space inside the boat, as opposed to narrowly-focused pictures of key areas.  It's nearly impossible to photograph some of the tight spaces on boats, like head compartments or engine rooms, with a point-and-shoot camera.


They say there's no second chance at a first impression, and it's important to have your boat represented by a broker who understands that.  Take a look at my listings to see other examples of how a nicely built ad can help make that first impression a good one!

Starting 2011 with a Bang!

We've had a busy January, which is a pleasant surprise in a month that has historically proven to be one of the slowest of the year. On the sales side of things, we surpassed our January 2010 figure on the 19th and have over three-times that under contract with closing dates set before the 31st. If January is any indication of the rest of 2011, I think we're all in for a great year!

In addition to healthy sales, we've also seen an increase in boats being listed. I'll be representing six new listings as of this month, the most notable being a 1987 Bertram 46 Convertible and a 2007 Sea Ray 360 Sedan Bridge:

Four Corners, 1987 Bertram 46 Convertible
Tampa, FL

The Hutt 5, 2007 Sea Ray 360 Sedan Bridge
Tampa, FL

Along with these two I'll also be working with a few new clients at the Tampa Harbour Yacht Club, so take a look at my Active Listings to see what else is new!

As we move into the new year and things continue to pick up, it's a great time to put your boat on the market if you're thinking of selling, or to start your search if you're thinking of buying.  Either way, consulting a knowledgeable and well-informed broker is a great way to get the process started.  Drop me a line, or stop by our Tampa office to let me know what I can do for you.

You can reach me directly at 727-422-3914, or email rob@landmarkyachtsales.com. 

NEW LISTING: 2007 Wellcraft 30 Scarab Tournament

2007 Wellcraft 30 Scarab Tournament
Tampa, FL

Wellcraft does a great job striking a balance between a boat that's well-equipped for both fishing and family cruising.  The Scarab has all the options you need for trips offshore, including oversized fishboxes, extra rod holders, and lots of livewell space.  The addition of a large console head compartment, forward seating, and aft bench seat give the 30 Scarab the utility to double as a cruising boat for days on the water with family.

This vessel includes a nice dual axle Float-On trailer (pictured), and is in great condition.

New Listing: 2006 Chaparral 330 Signature

2006 Chaparral 330 Signature
Tampa, FL

Chaparral's 330 Signature is one of the most thoughtfully designed mid-sized express cruisers available.  The separation of the aft berth from the other interior spaces is a nice feature that is rarely executed as well as it is on the 330.  The result is a much larger entertaining space than the conventional forward-berth layouts on other boats, that still has the option of being converted into sleeping space for five.

This vessel features upgraded options such as: MerCruiser power package with transferable extended warranty, bow thruster, flat screens in cabin (2), synthetic teak swim platform, Raymarine electronics with radar, and much more.

New Listing: "Sláinte"

Sláinte, 2000 Formula 27 Performance Cruiser

Crystal River, FL

It's not very often that you find a decade-old boat that the Florida salt and sun haven't taken their toll on, but Sláinte is a pleasant exception to the rule. I've always been impressed with Formula yachts, and the fantastic condition of this 27 Performance Cruiser is a testament to the quality of their products. The boat is moored in Crystal River, FL and is meticulously maintained by its owners. Their recreational interests have changed, so Sláinte is on the market and ready for her new owner.