Likely Buyers
- Regional marine group
- Adds your yard and customers to locations it already runs.
- Experienced technician
- Has years on the water and wants to own the shop outright.
- Investor with a manager
- Buys steady storage and slip income and hires someone to run the yard.
Where the Profit Comes From
A marine business can earn from repair labor, parts, haul outs, dry storage, slips and fuel. Buyers split these into streams. Storage and slip rent repeat each month, while repair work depends on the season and the weather.
Put each stream on its own line in your books. A buyer who can see recurring income pays more for it than for work that has to be won again.
Technicians Are the Asset
Certified marine technicians are hard to find, and a buyer will ask who stays. If your best people follow you out the door, the revenue goes with them.
Talk to your key staff about the future before you list, and ask your broker when to share news. Early leaks create flight risk.
Water Access, Leases and Permits
Many yards sit on leased land, state owned bottomland or both. Buyers read the lease closely, including term, renewal rates and whether the landlord must approve a new owner.
Docks, lifts and fuel systems may carry their own approvals. The marina permits checklist lists the offices to call.
Storm Season Timing
Hurricane season affects results and buyer nerves. Lenders and buyers ask for several years of numbers so one quiet or busy summer does not decide the price.
Keep insurance claims and repair records organized. A clean file shows the yard recovers well.
What Makes Yours Stand Out
- Storage and slip income that renews every month
- Technicians who hold manufacturer certifications and plan to stay
- A lease with years left and clear renewal terms
- Books that match your tax returns
Want a number to plan around? Ask for a private price range. For deal terms that often come up, read about seller financing.