etiquette re: sea trial and survey when selling boat

[sailonchap]

Interested buyers notified me (seller) that they have scheduled a survey, haulout and sea trial of my boat.  I interjected my need to schedule at a time I can be present and available.  All agreed.  But, wanting to hear from others about 'etiquette' for handling a buyers access to the boat for these necessary decision-making actions.  When I purchased her, the seller and I worked together on all the details, he taking an active role in accompanying me and the surveyor throughout the process.  He was not 'in the way,' at the same time, he was available to clarify issues or answer questions.

Thanks in advance for the community's input.
Brent Adams
"Escape"

[S/V Deo Volente]

I don't know what is done in your area but since you are making the boat available for the survey, you should have a say in when. As far as a sea trial I wouldn't think of letting one be done without being aboard, although some owners let the Marina handle it.

[Jim Cozy]

Brent- In selling and buying four boats in the last twenty years, I have always operated in the way you describe. I do not like people messing about on my boats without being in attendance, would never allow someone else to take it out without me, but recognize the need to stay out of the way of the potential buyer and his surveyor. As the seller I like to adhere to the old cliche' of "speak only when spoken to". Jim

[BlameItOnBuffett]

When I bought my previous boat through a major brokerage, they did not have the owner on the boat for the sea trial. However, they did have the broker and a licensed captain - in addition to the surveyor. It could be kind of like the homeowner being around when they show your house - sometimes it helps, soemtimes it doesn't.

[allanc]

When we bought our boat.  The broker was there for much of the survey (the broker's boat was next door) and the owner stopped by for a little while.  The owner was around to answer any questions for the surveyor.  When we went on the sea trail, the owner handled the boat.  The owner was a licensed captain and that actually saved us a bit of money during the sea trial as we didn't have to pay for a captain.  The owner was very helpful and truthful with the surveyor and I think it was a big help.  The owner was so impressed with our surveyor, he asked for his card so he could use him for his next boat purchase.

[sailonchap]

Thanks for the responses; I appreciate the perspectives.   I have felt the awkwardness of not having that 'go-between' person, not having a broker. 

I have decided to be aboard for the sea trial, staying available and 'out of the way' as well.  We shall see soon enough.
Brent Adams