www.iFourWinns.com

Okay, here's a silly question. I'm about to negotiate on a new 2009 358V. What is it I should be asking for to be included in the deal other than a lower price. I've been boating for a long time but never bought a new boat, always bought used so all I've ever negotiated is price. Is it reasonable/typical to ask for "throw ins" like extended warranty, delivery, start-up kit(lines, fenders, safety kit, etc), training, etc.
Other ideas? What have you all experienced?

Make a list of everything you think you might need or want - and prioritize it.

If the lowest price is your goal - probably not a good idea to start hitting them on price and asking for 5 thousand in accessories.

Also keep in mind that there are lots of sources for things like safety gear, fenders, ropes, etc -- chances are that what they give you -- you could probably do better for the money.

Added 'factory' options are a little different... if there are any you want (like the swim platform rail system) -- then it's good to have them try to get that from the factory for free - and then it only costs the dealer some labor to install. Pretty minor stuff. Factory options -- the dealer can go back to FW and say "if you send me this, I have sold this boat" -- that's as good as a little extra rebate.

If it were me -- i would try to get the lowest price possible and walk away happy.

i wouldn't expect them able to do much better than 189k on a loaded up 358 like that... but I am sure there is *something* there...

Good luck! Keep us posted!

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2008 318 Vista -SOLD, but I am still around!
All Night Long, Seattle WA

PM sent.

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Previously:
2008 V358/Volvo 5.7 GXi Inboards

they countered my offer by like 2k but added shrinkwrap and bottom paint - which would have easily cost me 2k

make sure they barrier coat the bottom then paint it. a lot of dealers do as little as possible .

I would find out on this forum what the lowest price paid for this type of boat is across the country and offer that. Maybe some don't want to tell you on the forum but would privately. I think you should be around $190,000-195,000 for a decent deal.

The screaming deals of the last 12 months are dwindling fast. Trying to match prices that have been, are being, or will be paid is not a good idea. If you find one - take it.

Continue to watch comparables on the used market and fight for the best deal you can.

But -- seeing 40+% off retail for boats as a standard discount is pretty much gone. Notice I say 'pretty much'.

Some of us made out very well over the last year... Some of us will try to get that deal going forward, and be sadly disappointed.

Factory incentives aren't matching up like they were on excess inventory, materials & labor aren't cheaper (probably more so since production numbers are down so costs are spread over less #'s), and the industry has to get back to some sort of stability again.

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2008 318 Vista -SOLD, but I am still around!
All Night Long, Seattle WA