I am considering to buy a new Crestliner bass boat, using Crestliner online "Build & Price" tool�it came out around $14,000.�Without any prior experience in boat purchasing what should I expect when negotiating with�a dealer?� I don't want to low ball it, I just want to be fair, what should I realistically expect? Should I expect at least 5%, 10% or less from the MSRP price? I am not looking for a deal of the century, but don't want to be ripped off by the dealer either.

Thanks!

I wouldnt expect much at all, especially if you are looking to build your own and not take one off the "lot". I dont believe you get a lot of wiggle room in boats on the lot either, but I have never bought new and am only basing that one hearsay.

If it's MAP pricing then dealers can't discount. That don't mean you cant negotiate freight and prep or get some accessories tossed in for free.

Thanks, I was so naive to assume the process would be similar to purchasing a new car where you would expect to pay below a MSRP price.

Expect to get irritated. Hope you don�t.

It simply depends on the dealer. Some have a no haggle policy and you can be assured that you are overpaying. On my first boat I got nothing off. On my second boat, they came off the list price about 15%. I think it depends on their sales for the month and current inventory levels but also around boat show time they seem to make deals.

Custom boat, you arent shopping for the "deal" so the dealership has got you right where they want you. To get a boat that has wiggle room you would probably look at their inventory and see what's been in stock awhile. Accessories and services was a large part of my last purchase as well. For instance you may get a better deal on a color that isnt popular or a boat they have a couple of, or last years unsold model.

Give me a shout. My dealer sells Crestliner's and I will tell you what to expect from him if you decide to use him. I have purchased two boats from him and been very pleased with the discounts and being able to add things to the boat at dealer costs. That is a great savings on the small stuff like extra pedestals, seats, life jackets and some gauges.