Getting a new title for a boat

[Big_R]

I'm hoping someone has gone through this so they can tell me if it's worth it.  An in-law has an '87 Sea Ray boat that he more or less wants to give me.  It's mechanically sound, but the seats are pretty ratty.  Anyway, he bought it about 5 years ago and got the title for the trailer, but never for the boat.  The guy he bought it from moved shortly after the sale and has been hard to track down.  I have about $1000.00 to spend, but haven't gone through trying to get something like this titled.  Anyone have advice on getting a new title?  Thanks.

Ryan

[Stickjockey]

Just remember: a boat is a fibreglass hole in the water, into which you pour money.

I would think your DMV would be able to help you  with it.

[Preacherman]

A new title for a boat?  Isn't that when someone smashes a bottle of champagne against the bow?

[richyoung]

What state are you in?  Does your state have "bonded title" where you simply post a bond and assert that you own it, and if no one contests it for a period of time, usually three years, you get a regular title?  There are also "title services" that get s title in another state, (usually Alabama), and then "sell" it back to you, for a fee.

[charby]

I bought a canoe once that didn't have a title. I got a bill of sale from the owner and went to the county treasurer and got the title drawn up.

I would have the in law draft up a bill of sale and have it notarized and go from there.

I've owned a few boats and as Stickjockey said they are a money pit. I have been looking into buying an old fiberglass or aluminum speedboat for a resto project, the initial purchase of the boat isn't much but the resto process can get expensive quick. $1k is just a drop in the bucket to start on a boat. That might maybe cover your upholstery work on the seats. Please stick to light colors your ass will be happy when your out boating on a hot day and you decide to switch to an empty seat.

C

[Big_R]

I'm in central Minnesota (lake country).  Boats like this sell regularily for around 3 - 4k if they're in good shape.  Thanks for the suggestions.  I'll start with the DMV and go from there.

Ryan

[Jamisjockey]

I'm hoping someone has gone through this so they can tell me if it's worth it.  An in-law has an '87 Sea Ray boat that he more or less wants to give me.  It's mechanically sound, but the seats are pretty ratty.  Anyway, he bought it about 5 years ago and got the title for the trailer, but never for the boat.  The guy he bought it from moved shortly after the sale and has been hard to track down.  I have about $1000.00 to spend, but haven't gone through trying to get something like this titled.  Anyone have advice on getting a new title?  Thanks.

Ryan

http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/licenses/watercraft/index.html
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/licenses/watercraft/titles.html

If you want the boat, get it done.  Don't let anyone discourage you from having a good time.

[charby]

Boats can be expensive to own but they are a lot of fun. As JJ said don't let anyone discourage you if you really want to be a boater. I can't imagine life without a boat, though I do regret that I don't get out on the water as much as I say that I am each spring. Next year that will change because future Mrs Charby is a nautical babe and already has plans for us to own a large pontoon boat someday. I'd rather have a fish/ski or a speedboat but I'd be happy just being able to be on the water.

-C

[Stickjockey]

Please understand, nothing in my post was meant to discourage youfrom getting a boat if you want one. Just be aware of what  boat ownership entails.

[Big_R]

Thanks for the info.  I'll hit the DMV on Friday.

Stickjockey:  Don't worry.  I'm aware that money will have to be put into it.  I'm hoping I can get it water ready for less than $1000.00.  So far, it's looking good.

Ryan