$1000 Sailboats

Everyday I scour the internet looking for a suitable sailboat that meets my needs and the needs of my family.  Sometimes you don't see anything new being listed.  Sometimes there is plenty of listings to look through.  The one thing I can say for sure is that there is no consistent pricing in the used sailboat marketplace. 

Today I found a 1984 Cal 27.  List price $1000.  First question:  What is wrong with it.  Second question: What is wrong with it.  The question beckons, why would such a large sailing boat be listed for such a dirt cheap price.  The listing got the best of me and I called.  I was told that the boat has been in storage for 5 years.  Storage is a natural enemy of any sailboat.  The longer they sit, the more the elements (sun and water) destroy the boat.  It can be even worse if the boat is not covered or that there are opening in the boat that have allowed water to penetrate.  Next, I was informed that all the sails, lines, and interior cushions have all been stored indoors at the marina and that they are in fine condition.  Still after 15 minutes talking to the owner, I still have no better idea of the condition of the boat than when I first started.  My personal rule of thumb is not to spend time going to look at a boat if the owner is not willing to e-mail you pictures.  The only exception to this rule is, after talking to the owner, that you come to the conclusion that attaching pictures to an e-mail is a real challenge for them.... like breathing.


To any extent, my interest has been peaked.  I am looking at my calendar now trying to figure out a time to go and see this boat.  My expectations are low.... very low.  I would rather be surprised, than disappointed.  I will be writing a whole blog post on what people actually put in their listings when they are trying to sell a boat.  It will be interesting.  I will keep you posted.