I think you should do as much research as possible on your new boat,
research price, boat and motor. Squeeze the dealer as much as possible, this
will in turn force him to squeeze the supply chain ahead of him. I am sure
there are 25% margins available to be worked on, I do not think a 5% margin
is unreasonable. There will be warranty work that they will receive
remuneration from the manufacture and there will be extras and more value
the dealer can add to the sale. They will make money from you, but for the
big purchase, squeeze that down as much as you can. When they start talking
manufacture suggested retail prices, then say they will give you 10 off or
an extra 5%, you offer to buy the boat for 45% off the manufacture suggested
retail price, they will still make money.





"RG" wrote in message
news:seIDb.11708$J77.9274@fed1read07...

"Konnie" wrote in message
...
My mate and I are considering purchasing a 22' or 23' Chaparral
runabout.
I
was just on a business trip on the east coast and priced the SSi220 and
it
was $5,000 less than in Arizona where we live.

So I get back home and the local dealer tell me the profit margin on the
boat is only 20% and he has discounted 15% and can't go any lower.

I don't mind paying anyone in business a fair profit but I would like
the
truth - does any one know how much profit are in these boats?

Konnie


Sun Country Marine? If so, proceed with caution, and don't expect any
deals. They are not known for aggressive pricing, and their service
department is widely recognized as one of the worst in AZ. Never heard a
positive comment from anybody who's had to deal with their service
department. I know several people who own Chaparrals and Formulas, and
they
all have negative things to say regarding Sun Country's service
department.
If you're stuck on Chapparral (nothing wrong with that) then I wouldn't
hesitate to shop out of town. On the other hand, you may want to consider
other manufacturers, which would bring other local dealers into the mix.

RG