Page 6 - How To Guide 2015

6TT HOW-TO GUIDE ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE TRI-LAKES EDITION OF THE ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE • SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 , 2015
Choose a boat dealer
WITH ARKANSAS MARINE
When shopping for a boat, Keep in mind what the boat will be used for. A shiny, red speed boat might not be the best option if the boat will be used for hunting. A qualified dealer will also carry a variety of boating accessories.
For people who enjoy an active, rewarding lifestyle, buying a boat offers countless opportunities for bond- ing with friends and family, cruising on the lake or river, and enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors. If
you foresee a boat in your future, you will need to find a craft that meets your needs and ensures the safety of you and your passengers. After all, this is a big investment, and you want to make the right decision.
One of the most important aspects of choosing a boat is choosing the right dealer. Let’s face it: You’re not just buying a boat, you’re buying an experience — and you want that expe- rience to be enjoyable, even when you’re not out on the water.
“The dealer you choose to give your hard-earned money to can most certainly make or break that experience,” said Ron Hudson, who, along with his wife, Michele, owns and operates Arkansas Marine in Bryant. “Even the most fastidiously built and rigged boat, powered by the most reliable engines, will eventually require service. You want a local dealer that will guarantee service both before and after the sale.”
There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing a boat dealer, Ron said, including the following:
• How long has the dealer been in business?
• Is the dealer conveniently located?
• Does the staff seem genuinely happy to see you?
• Is the sales staff knowledgeable about the brands they sell?
FINDING A REPUTABLE BOAT DEALER
• Are the yard and showroom clean and organized?
• How long have the employees worked at the dealership?
• Does the dealer have a parts and service center on site? Hudson suggests looking for a dealer that knows the indus-
try and has earned a reputation for reliability. You can find dealers from a variety of sources, but should do your research before ever setting foot on the lot. Ask friends and family for recommendations; it’s a good idea to also consult local con- sumer websites and the Better Business Bureau. Before going to a dealer, do some research on different boats and manufac- turers. Visit the manufacturers’ websites, as well as boating fo- rums and consumer websites, and read comments and ratings for various models.
Arkansas Marine carries a good selection of trusted brands,
including Skeeter, G3, SunCatcher, Yamaha, Veranda and SeaArk, Hudson said, adding that customers hoping to save a little extra money will also find pre-owned boats.
“We inspect every used boat we sell, and run every motor to make sure it’s up to par,” Ron said, adding that boat buyers should also check for national advertising specials and incen- tives.
When it comes to financing your purchase, Michele suggests using a company that’s familiar with making boat loans.
“There are companies that don’t typically deal with the ma- rine industry, and they tend to have higher interest rates or early payoff penalties,” she said.
When you have selected a boat, make sure it is certified by the National Marine Manufacturers Association. This certifi- cation ensures that the boat was built according to the Amer- ican Boat and Yacht Council’s standards and will meet U.S. Coast Guard requirements.
Consider how much you can spend on a boat, and be sure to leave enough money in your budget for storage fees, as well as fuel and refreshments while you’re at the lake.
“Get a price quote that includes taxes and fees,” Ron said. “You want to know up front what fees will be charged so you’re not surprised by additional costs.”
— Courtesy of Green Shoot Media with contributions by Jennifer Ellis, special sections writer