How to Sell Your Jet Ski [A Step-by-Step Guide] - jetdrift.com (2024)

Selling a jet ski is not as exciting as purchasing a new one, but it still needs as much attention and effort.

When you feel it’s time to move on, you probably want to know how to sell your jet ski, what documents you’ll need and how you can get the highest price.

We, at JetDrift, have gathered the best tips and tricks on selling a jet ski into this step-by-step guide!

How to Sell Your Jet Ski

You can sell your jet ski mainly in two different ways. You can sell it privately, but you can also find many dealerships who offer cash for your used jet ski. Whenever you want to sell your jet ski, make sure it runs perfectly and give it a makeover. Then do your research to find out the right asking price.

If you want to sell it to an individual, be prepared that it means a lot of work and hassle. You’ll have to take some pictures of your jet ski and advertise it online.

Then, be prepared for the communication with the buyers, and the test rides which are not hassle-free with a jet ski.

You’ll also have to gather the necessary documents (title, registration certificate, trailer’s documents, bill of sale) before you close the deal.

This is the process of selling a jet ski in a nutshell, but if you want to go into the details, you can make a good use of this step-by-step jet ski selling guide:

Jet Ski Selling Guide

Prepare the Jet Ski for Sale

If you’ve decided to sell your jet ski, you’ll have to prepare it for the sale.

Make sure it runs well and every feature is working properly. If something’s wrong, get all of these issues fixed before your start to advertise your jet ski.

It’s also wise to remove all of your gear from the storage bins; just leave the required safety accessories in the jet ski.

If you want to sell some other gear with the jet ski, the best practice is to show these items to potential buyers separately.

If you want to get the highest price for your jet ski, it’s recommended you clean and polish it carefully, and don’t forget about the trailer, either!

Take Some Pictures

After the makeover on your jet ski, you may want to take some pictures of it.

When you’re taking the pictures, make sure the background is appealing, as the messy surroundings may discourage many potential buyers.

The best practice is if you can shoot some pictures while your jet ski is on the water, but you can also take some pictures while it sits on the trailer.

Find Out the Right Asking Price

Determining the right asking price for a jet ski may seem tricky, but don’t worry. Just research the marketplace to get an idea. Check the price of similar jet skis in online ads and try to set the right asking price.

Pricing a used jet ski is not rocket sciencel if you release the ads and get many calls immediately in a short time, it means your asking price is too low.

But if no one shows up for weeks, it could be a clue that you’re asking too much and you should reduce the price.

Posting Ads – Where Can You Sell Your Jet Ski?

For a faster sale, it’s recommended you advertise your jet ski on multiple online marketplaces. The most popular sites are:

• PWC Trader
• Boats.com
• Iboats
• Craigslist
• eBay

When you create your ads, make sure that you write a nice description and use stellar images. If your ads are not attractive, you have to expect much less interest which may result in an extended sales period and a lower selling price.

The Test Rides

One of the biggest drawbacks of selling a jet ski privately is arguably the test rides and dealing with the potential buyers.

Unlike cars, which can do a test drive around the block, jet skis have to be trailered to the water and launched before a test ride.As we know, these are all time-consuming operations, which means test rides on your jet ski could be a big hassle.

Don’t even mention the would-be “buyers” who aren’t looking for sales, but just to get a jet ski ride for free!

Another problem could be if the potential buyer damages the jet ski on the test ride. Because of this concern, many sellers offer test rides only if the buyer can hand you the entire asking price in cash!

This trick is not just insurance for the seller, but can keep away the time robbers who are just hunting for free jet ski rides.

Moreover, be prepared for a variety of questions, which can be very technical at times. Because of the amount of hassle, many owners sell their jet skis to dealerships, especially if they purchase a new jet ski!

Closing the Deal – The Required Documentation for Selling a Jet Ski

If you’ve made the deal, you have to pay attention to the paperwork. The list of required documents may vary by the state, so it’s recommended you check your state’s laws first.

As a rule of thumb, in the most states, the required documents are:

• Bill of sale
• Certificate of Registration
• Title
• Proof of loan payoff
• Trailer documents

Additionally, you may also need the maintenance records and the warranty certificate, so it’s recommended you gather all of these documents upfront.

Even if your state doesn’t require a title on jet skis, it’s always wise to request if before you sell the jet ski.

When Should You Sell a Jet Ski?

The best time to sell a jet ski is early spring, as you can expect the greatest interest from buyers before the season. It results in a faster sale and higher selling price! On the other hand, it also makes sense to sell your jet ski at the end of the season, before you winterize it.

Conclusion

When it comes time to sell your jet ski, the most convenient way to sell it is to a dealership.

If you’re considering selling your jet ski privately, be prepared for a lot of work and hassle. To do it right, just follow these steps one by one:

• Make sure the jet ski works properly.
• Give it a thorough cleaning and polishing.
• Take some stellar pictures.
• Research the marketplace to find out the asking price.
• Advertise your jet ski on many online marketplaces.
• Gather the necessary documentation.
• Handle the potential buyers and be prepared for the test rides.
• Close the deal.
• Cancel the insurance and remove the online ads.

If you’re looking for a new jet ski, don’t hesitate to check our jet ski browser and comparison tool.You can discover and compare the latest models head to head!

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