1. SELL IT YOURSELF -

*   Benefits:  May produce the highest yield if successful.

*   Disadvantages:  Many owners are not equipped to handle sales calls because: they are not available, they are occupied with more important things, and they are not skilled in aircraft marketing. This activity is sometimes delegated to someone who may not be knowledgeable or even may not want to see the helicopter go (i.e. a pilot). There is usually a slow start-up due to advertising lag times. This sales market opportunities due to limited industry contacts. You will have to handle and respond to many "tire kickers" who will consume a great deal of time. In addition, you will have to cover on-going ownership expenses and risk during the sales process as well as FAA requirements and title transfer.
 

2. SELL TO A DEALER -

*   Benefits:  Immediate Cash. You avoid on-going and upcoming expenses. The aircraft is usually sold "as is, where is" and all ownership risks for the seller are stopped. 

*   Disadvantages: You will have to sell the aircraft for a lower (wholesale) price since the dealer will assume from you the following costs: interest, insurance, repairs, refurbishment, advertising, ferry cost, and the risk of ownership. The dealer will also plan to make a profit on the ultimate resale.

3.  BROKERAGE/COMMISSION BASIS -

*  Benefits: May be a good "middle ground" yield. Choosing a competent helicopter dealer is essential. You may get to keep the helicopter and use it until sold. This approach takes advantage of the dealer's on-going advertising, market presence, industry contacts, and existing sales situations. Also, the dealer may be active in foreign markets, thereby broadening your prospects.

*  Disadvantages: On-going cost and risks remain with the owner until the aircraft is sold. Needed maintenance may have to be done and out-of-pocket cost will continue.
 
At Austin Jet Aircraft Sales, we can buy your helicopter or provide a professional brokerage service for you. We have had numerous situations where the seller would try to sell the helicopter himself for several months, then out of frustration call us to buy it or sell it for him. This is the "worse of both worlds" approach since the on-going cost are substantial for interest, insurance, hanger, maintenance, pilot, taxes, etc. Recently a large company who had been trying for several months to sell their helicopter, asked us to broker the ship for them. We had a firm contract and deposit in ten days and a smooth closing followed. This was due to our industry contacts, negotiation solutions for upcoming maintenance, and on-going advertising program.