Buy 2018 R5 now or wait?

[carrera85]

Hi there. Looking for some advice. I don’t need a boat until summer of 23 but saw a very nice 2018 R5 I can get for $119k with new trailer. Only 80 hours merc 350 optioned well. Original MSRP was 132k. Gut tells me there will be better deals a couple years from now. Like I said I don’t need it. I’d be storing it if I buy it until I move back to the lake. Now or wait? Thanks for your thoughts.

[Big Block Power]

Wait. But I'll transfer you the money over seas. Lol

[CobaltDeadHead]

If I didn't have an immediate need, I'd probably hold out and see if I can get one with a 380 for that price. Could happen over the course of two years if you keep an eye on the market.

Also, the thought of just parking a $120k asset in the garage for a couple of years would be foreign to me. Then again for some, boats have been an appreciating asset over the past two years.

[R6outboard]

WAIT. 100%. You can do better. On top of that I don't think letting a boat sit for 18 months is a good idea. All sorts if issues could arise. Both mechanical and wildlife. Plus possible storage costs. Better to wait till you need it....... Is the boat exactly what you want? A lot of coin to spend and not get it how you like.

I saw recently a member got 20% on a new build. I got more % off and bought in June this year. Note I ordered before the "boat crisis". However see that someone ordered a week or two ago at 20%.

A new 140k boat (add 6k for a good trailer, 9k for the best). Even at 149k you are at the same 119k with 20% off. I realize pricing since 18 has gone up so a 132k boat then would be more like 145-50k today. But it would be new, full warranty and can spec how you like it. Id spend the next 12 months building what you want online. Get a msrp of your ideal build. Either buy new via ordering (with discount) or find a better deal than that next year. I feel your best time to order or shop would be end of next season. Basically this time next year place an order. Maybe September and October is best.

Also seeing Cobalts sit for sale longer than 4-5 months ago. I surf boattrader all the time for shits and giggles. Bored. Was thinking of trading my boat in on another build... but now think ill hold off a year or keep long run.

Might be wrong but feel things have peaked. Prices will be higher next couple years than the past; but I think the worst of it is over. I would be shooting for 20-25% off. Next year will be tell tale. Best of luck to you and the adventure of buying a boat. Keep us posted.

[carrera85]

Thanks all. Good advice. Will wait.

[kas232ca]

I would pass on that one but keep your eye out for a larger engine version and be ready to pounce.