Yachtbrokers work a bit like estate agents. They assist the owner in drawing up a full inventory of the boat, photos and often a videotour. They also ask the owner for a copy of the administrative documents relating to the boat that are useful for the sale, such as the title deed, a written declaration of conformity (DEC), the Builder's certificate, proof that VAT has been paid, a mortgage statement, etc...
Yachtbrokers then take care of promoting the boat on dedicated websites in order to find a buyer. They arrange visits, and it is up to the sellers to make their boat available for these visits, in good working order and clean.
When the preliminary sales agreement is signed, Yachtbroker receives a 10% deposit to secure the transaction for both buyer and seller. This is usually followed by a survey by the buyer's surveyor and a sea trial.
If the buyer is satisfied with this stage, the final bill of sale is drawn up, sometimes with a final negotiation. If not, the deposit is returned to the buyer in less than 5 days.
The Yachtbroker then assist sthe seller and buyer with the rest of the administrative formalities, transport, etc.
The balance (90%) is transferred directly from the buyer to the seller and never passes through the Yachtrbokeraccount. Some French brokers do this, but for your own safety this practice should be absolutely avoided.
Enjoy your sailing.
