(initiator of thread - thanks for keeping this discussion going) There
are definately lots of boats for sale in the 30' range and last weekend
at a large marina on the northern part of the Chesapeake I counted
relatively few boats under 32'; most being 38' and above (most of them
Hunters, Catalinas, and Beneteaus - in that order).
This question is directed at those who know something about
Bristols. I have been following the listings for five months now. I
copy the specs and I keep track of what the asking prices are. In
comparison to Tartans, C&C's, Sabres, etc., the variance in asking
price for the Bristol, whether it is the 31.1 or 35.5 (especially this
one) is much higher. And this wide range of asking prices (55-119k) is
within the same region and with what appear to me equally equipped and
aged boats. I have visited some of them them, though have not gotten to
the point where I have had them surveyed, so I do not know if there is
something fundamentally wrong with the ones in the 50-ish range and
something spectacular with those priced much higher. The cosmetically
cleaner boats are the pricier ones, but not so nice that they should be
priced 75% higher than the others. Sure, the Bristol may have a cult
following, but so does the Tartan 37, Ericson 38, Westsail 32, and the
Sabres, and I do not see a similar range in asking prices for these
boats. The Bristol has a lot of things going for it, but its downside
is also common knowledge. Is there something I am missing? Or are some
sellers irrational? Few are moving.
My hope is that if I remain patient the market will be more rational
toward the end of the season. But I am a new to this game. Any advice?