Het laatste nieuws

The Dutch yachting industry in the spotlight: Smits Jachtmakelaardij

Door

21/11/2015

1877

Leestijd: 4 minuten

When it comes to selling, buying or trading a motoryacht or launch, Smits Jachtmakelaardij excels in making the connections that ensure everything runs smoothly. In addition to its personal and proactive touch, the company has an international and modern approach. Deploying smart technology such as a dedicated app, the yacht brokerage allows interested boat buyers in the Netherlands and abroad to continuously stay abreast of interesting developments.

For René Smits, Smits Jachtmakelaardij was the outcome of a lifelong passion for water sports. His love affair with the water began when he set foot on his grandparents’ boat at age four, and has continued throughout the many cruises and sailing holidays that followed. In 2012, René made a major change to his life, training to become an EMCI-certified yacht brokers and start his own yacht brokerage. Exchanging a career as a successful financial advisor for a life in the boating world, he never looked back.

Creative spirit
Smits Jachtmakelaardij has the entire process of buying and selling in its own hands. This allows the brokers to remain always aware of the ins and outs of the boats managed by the brokerage, and also offer additional services. “We can manoeuvre very quickly and anticipate all the needs of a customer,” René explains. “I also bring customers in touch with each other, generating some great options for the exchange of boats. We provide creative solutions that guarantee maximum convenience.”

The service provided by Smits Jachtmakelaardij goes beyond merely buying and selling boats. The brokerage also offers a helping hand in issues related to banking, appraisals, expertise, yacht registration and yacht transport.

Selling while sailing
Smits Jachtmakelaardij has no sales marina and boats remain based in their home port during the sales process. This means that owners retain control of their yacht, can take care of the required maintenance and carry out any last-minute preparations just before a visit. They can also still go sailing, which is good for the yacht as regular use is the best way to keep a boat in top condition.

In the spotlight
Smits Jachtmakelaardij has a very active presence in the market, with advertising in magazines, on supply and demand sites, and in social media. In addition, the brokerage has its own website and its own app. “The app can be downloaded to a smartphone or tablet and allows users to continuously stay updated about items such as new arrivals, price trends and boats sold,” René says.
Smits is also present at Dutch and international exhibitions, such as the HISWA Amsterdam Boat Show in Amsterdam, Boot Düsseldorf and the Moscow Boat Show. “I go to these shows to promote my company, while also getting in touch with international agents for potential partnerships, such as the ones I already have in France. The Netherlands is acclaimed for its well-maintained yachts and the majority of vessels are bought by people from abroad. My network in the Netherlands and in countries such as France, Germany, Scandinavia and Russia is continuously expanding. The past year has shown that dedication and a proactive approach always bear fruit.”