Hi guys,
Wow didn't realize lawyers would be such a hot topic, I kind of feel like I asked for everyone's thought's and views about which type of loo they felt would be the best to go with. (not to worry, we've already decided that one)
Really though, I do appreciate receiving everyone's options on using or not using a solicitor to over see the refundable deposit & the final bill of sale. After having one fairly difficult encounter with a private seller, as Dave has mentioned; that's when we thought it best to seek the advice and guidance of a experienced marine solicitor before entering into any further negations with private sellers. Unfortunately the 3 boats we are viewing this coming week are mostly with private sellers as well.
I appreciate not everyone currently selling a boat is trying to rip people off, but I'm sure most of you would agree there are a few. My fear is I wouldn't be able to tell the difference.
MtB - I love your posts and sense of humour, and whole heartedly agree with your 3 points. 4 months ago, I couldn't tell you the difference between a car battery or a deep cell battery, or why turning the water off while you brush your teeth would be so important, never mind what an anode was. We've had a Very steep learning curve so far on our journey and I understand we have a long way to go yet. Ideally we would like to be on our boat and starting our new life before the end of January and I just don't have the confidence that we will be able to educate ourselves enough to understand all the pitfalls to look out for at the buying stage. Hence we are willing to seek some expert advice, even if it is only good for the day we receive it or following a paper trail, or even safeguarding a deposit if we find ourselves in that situation.
The funny thing is, I've spent more time researching regulations, living aboard costs, CaRT rules & regulations, multi fuel stoves, 12v appliances, helmsman courses, fire extinguisher / fire blanket requirements, blackening, surveyors, traditional / semi trad / cruiser sterns, wide beam vs narrow (whichever is the most authentic), wood vs smokeless fuel, the god forsaken arguments about types of loos, down to how much power an iron will suck out of the system; than I would have if I was still working full time at my last job and I was averaging around 50 hours a week there. Please don't get me wrong, I'm in no way complaining, I have fully enjoyed it. Really the only frustrating bit I've found so far is trying to get a straight answer out of CaRT regarding CCer's and the regulations about 14 day moving process in the winter when froze in somewhere.
Grace & Favour - great idea, I'll give that a try on Monday when their offices reopen.
Thanks again all for the input - much appreciated
Betty~