Do Jack Plates Add Value to Your Boat? Here’s Why Buyers Want Them

When it comes to upgrades that actually pay off, jack plates are one of the few boat accessories that can boost resale value and performance at the same time. Whether you run a flats boat, bay boat, bass boat, or a shallow-water skiff, adding a jack plate isn’t just about better handling — it’s an investment that can help your boat stand out in the market.

1. A Jack Plate Is a Premium Upgrade Buyers Recognize

Today’s buyers are more informed than ever. They know a hydraulic or manual jack plate helps you fine-tune engine height for better speed, efficiency, and shallow-water capability. When someone’s shopping for a used boat, seeing a cleanly installed jack plate signals performance and quality — and that often translates into a higher asking price.

2. Improved Performance = Higher Value

A jack plate improves your hole shot, allows you to run in shallower water, and reduces drag at cruising speeds. Buyers appreciate those real-world benefits, especially in coastal areas or lakes with shifting sandbars and shoals. It also protects your lower unit, which can save costly repairs — another reason resale value climbs.

3. Helps Your Boat Sell Faster

Two identical boats for sale? The one with a jack plate will usually sell first and closer to asking price. It’s an easy differentiator that gives your listing an edge on sites like BoatTrader or Facebook Marketplace.

4. Signals Proper Care and Customization

A professionally installed jack plate tells buyers your boat has been rigged and maintained by someone who knows what they’re doing. That adds confidence and credibility — both key factors in resale negotiations.

While a jack plate won’t double your boat’s value, it absolutely adds selling power and appeal. If you’re upgrading for performance now, you’re also investing in future resale value later.