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I am looking a purchase an older Checkmate 251 Convincer. I have been looking at late 80's and early 90's model year boats. I called the bank, whom I have my mortage through. They checked the NADA book and said the book value is only $11,000. The cheapest 251 I have seen was really rough and they were asking $13,500. I think these boats are worth more than $11,000, but on the other hand I don't think they are worth $20,000. Any ideas. I was wondering if anyone knows of anyone who specializes in financing boats or older boats. Thanks in advance.

Recheck the BUC book. Nada is typically 26% under BUC, the real blue book.

Call Premier motorsports at Gun Lake 269-792-8080. They are big time Check mate Dealer. I'm sure they can help you out...

HOTROD2

Thanks for Premier motorsports number. I talked to one of the salesman at the hardy party last year, but I lost his business card. Can you tell me anything about them, good or bad??

When I was boat shopping, I'd find something that looked like a hell of a deal when comparing it to similar boats. I'd look up the price in NADA, and the asking price was always higher than the NADA price. I looked at a nice 92 251 last year for 16K.

I used to own an 89 251 and really liked it. But decided that we needed a bigger boat.

I own an 86' 251 Convinsor. I love it ! We boat on lake Michigan, the 251 is a good rough water (lake) boat. Although we do overnight in it the cabin is small. With moderate power it runs well in the 70's/80's. When you are looking at these check several things. Power, what is in it, many came with small blocks but they were also avalible with big blocks and ALPHA drives (later ones have Bravo's) If you want durablity and speed, the bravo is the way to go. It is not a difficult change, but can add significant value. As well as the HP will change the price.I would look for an 86 to 89 and option it as you want. Just my o2. PM me if you want to know more about what I've done to mine. There are a lot of Great Checkmates out there.

I'm going to sell my 93, 280 Convincor and I will be asking more than the NADA price but the boat is worth it. Its in fantastic shape with low hours. It takes more to determine the worth of a boat than just a book. Yea, thats my opinion, but I know its hard to convince a bank that only knows the book price. Good luck finding one.

Make sure the bank knows how to book out the boat. NADA values do not include any options or the trailor. The options and trailor can up in a hurry.

Thanks everyone for your help. If you run across any 251's in the great lakes area please let me know!!!!!!!!1