How can I tell if a marina’s slip holders are likely to stay after a sale?
Look at how long each slip holder has stayed, how reliably they renew, and why any have left. Read their complaints, and ask which holders are tied to the seller personally. Speak to some of them when the seller allows it, and ask what would make them move.
No one can promise that slip holders will stay, but the record gives clues. Start with tenure and renewal. A roster full of people who return every year suggests satisfaction, while frequent departures deserve questions. Ask the seller why recent holders left and where they went.
Next, separate the reasons people stay. Some like the location, services and security. Others stay because of a friendship with the owner, a special price or a promise. The second kind is more fragile. Ask which holders are close to the seller and which received special terms.
Consider alternatives. Are other marinas nearby with space? Is there a waiting list here? Boat owners with easy options can leave more easily. Once the deal is advanced, ask the seller to introduce you to a few holders and listen to what they care about. Plan how you will keep them informed during the handover, and ask the seller whether they will help with that message. Compare what you learn with the seller’s own expectations, and ask them to explain any gap. Keep your own notes on each conversation so patterns become clear.
Key takeaways
- Review tenure, renewals and the reasons slip holders left.
- Separate holders who stay for the marina from those who stay for the seller.
- Check nearby alternatives and any waiting list.
- Meet a few holders once the deal is advanced.
Related reading
12 pages on the same subject, grouped by topic.
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Due diligence
Selling
- Expert answerHow do I sell a records storage business when client boxes stay in the warehouse?
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- Expert answerHow do I tell my grooming clients their dog’s groomer will stay after the sale?
- Expert answerHow do I show a buyer that my marina’s winter storage is reliable?
Sources
This answer is checked against primary sources. Links were last confirmed on the dates shown.
- 01Business Development Bank of CanadaGovernmentHow to conduct due diligence when buying a business
- 02Business Development Bank of CanadaGovernmentHow to minimize negotiations when selling your business
- 03Business Development Bank of CanadaGovernmentAfter buying a business, what is the next step?
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