First-Time Boat Buyer Checklist for Nashville, TN

Buying your first boat is one of the best decisions you can make for your family's quality of life in Middle Tennessee. Percy Priest Lake is 15 minutes away. Old Hickory is 30 minutes. But buying wrong leads to regret and repair bills. Use this checklist to do it right.

For a deeper dive, read our full first-time boat buyer guide.

Step 1: Figure Out How You'll Actually Use It

• Primary lake: Percy Priest, Old Hickory, or both?
• Primary activity: cruising, watersports, fishing, entertaining, or a mix?
• Typical crew size: 2-4 people, or regularly 6-10?
• Watersports priority: surfing and boarding require a different boat than casual tubing

Step 2: Set a Realistic Total Budget

• Purchase price
• Sales tax (Tennessee: 7% + local)
• Title and registration fees
• Insurance (get a quote before you buy)
• First-year maintenance budget ($500 minimum)
• Trailer if not included
• Storage if you don't have driveway space

Add 15-20% to whatever you think the boat will cost.

Step 3: Choose the Right Boat Type

For most first-time Nashville buyers:

• Pontoon or tritoon if family entertaining is the priority
• Bowrider if versatility and watersports matter
• Wake boat only if wake surfing is the primary activity and budget supports it

Step 4: Inspect Before You Buy

• Check hull for cracks, repairs, or impact damage
• Bounce on the floor — soft spots indicate water intrusion in fiberglass boats
• Check aluminum tubes for dents and corrosion on pontoons
• Start the engine — let it warm up, listen for knock or smoke
• Test all electrical: lights, bilge, stereo, live wells
• Check the trailer: lights, bearings, bunks, winch strap
• Ask for all service records
• For significant purchases: hire an independent marine surveyor ($200-$400)

Step 5: Understand Financing

See our boat financing page. Boat loans work like auto loans. Most lenders want 10-20% down and terms run 60-180 months. Get pre-qualified before you shop.

Step 6: Get Insurance Before You Launch

Tennessee doesn't require boat insurance by law, but if you're financing your lender does. Even if you own outright — one accident can cost more than the boat is worth. Shop through your existing home/auto insurer first, then compare with boat-specific carriers.

Step 7: Register the Boat

All motorized vessels must be registered through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). You'll need the bill of sale, title, and payment. Processing takes 2-4 weeks for permanent decals — you'll get a temporary permit to operate in the meantime.

Step 8: Take a Boating Safety Course

Required for operators born after January 1, 1989 who are under 26. Even if not required for you, it's a good investment for first-time boat owners. TWRA offers a free online course.

Ready to find your first boat? Browse our inventory at Bill's Used Boats or call (629) 245-2628 — no pressure, just honest guidance.