determining outboard value

[island guy]

Used outboard pricing confuses me. How does one determine value? I've looked at "blue book" value and compared that to actual listings and there is a huge difference. Blue book seems to be way less than actual listing prices. An example, a friend had a older 15hp to sell. Average condition. Blue book was $160. He listed it for $500 and could of sold it many times over at that price. Are there resources available to determine fair value of a used outboard?

[Iron Cowboy]

Sorry I cant help but I know what you mean. Its not just motors its boats too. I have been looking for a late 90's alum. fishing boat in 16 to 17ft range and cant believe the difference. most on C_list are asking twice as much if not more than the NADA book value says its worth. I know its spring in minnesota but come on' you've got to be kidding me I know the market runs off supply and demand but demand cant be that high, especially the times were in today. I have had a boat most my life but I'll fish from shore before I pay those prices

[CarpKing921]

I think horse power drives the price of outboards more then age. It seems these motors can last forever. I purchased a 87 classic 50 Merc.a few years back for around $1,100 installed been looking around at todays prices and have seen some listed for a little more.

[Hafnutz]

Throw away the blue book. Watch what they are selling for on the popular sites where people sell things. You will get a good feel for it after a week or so. Also check with some dealers and see what they sell them for. If it's real old it's anybody's guess.