BlogWhy Work with a Yacht Broker: Navigating Your Next DealSeptember 8, 2025

by Scott Williman

In the era of online shopping, overnight deliveries, and social media selling, why is the traditional practice of working with a yacht broker still the smart way to navigate the deal? In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the reasons to enlist skilled representation and how that will guarantee a smooth transaction

Why Work With A Yacht Broker

For both the buyer and seller, working with a yacht broker who understands market trends and can accurately assess boat values will be a critical element. Yacht brokers are like realtors; we’ve got access to past and present listings, sold boat data, and a network of resources to facilitate the deal. Additionally, professional brokerages invest a lot of money to get your listing shown on many major sites with premium placement to broaden the pool of interested shoppers. 

The Process

As the deal moves forward, a broker’s relationship with local boatyards and surveyors should make scheduling surveys and sea trials much easier than for a private buying/selling scenario. A brokerage will also have escrow accounts set up to hold deposits and a notary on site to aid in the closing process. Traditionally, the broker’s commission is paid by the seller. The industry standard is 10% of the selling price, and this is agreed upon during the listing process. 

Here is a step-by-step breakdown from listing to closing with a yacht broker. There are many other small details along the way, but this outline should represent the typical progression. 

• Listing agreement established between the seller and the broker
• Photos taken, listing built on web-based platform, published on all major websites
• Broker collects calls/emails from interested parties, schedules showings in person and virtual
• Take offers, negotiate on behalf of the seller, agree on to value to get the boat under contract
• Schedule buyer’s inspection with local surveyor and boatyard
• Review survey results with both buyer and seller.  Re-negotiate the closing value or discuss financial consideration for any major components highlighted by the surveyor
• Vessel acceptance is signed, and closing is scheduled shortly thereafter
• Final funds wired to the broker, closing paperwork signed, and documentation for the new owner
• Payoff to the seller

The buying or selling process can seem complicated, but with the help of a professional yacht broker, smooth sailing is ahead. Contact us at St Barts Yacht Sales to discuss the process or for more information.  

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