I think a lot depends on the size of the boat and its equipment. Three years ago I bought a boat that was berthed in Gloucester, MA. Close enough to go see the boat. I made an offer that was negotiated, then accepted, pending sea trial and professional survey. That required selecting a surveyor (they specialize in types of boats, oil testing, etc), scheduling the surveyor, a captain for sea trials and the marina to pull the boat out of the water for bottom and propulsion inspection. Following the survey, we agreed on some work to be done and negotiated where it would be done and would the owner pay or reduce the price. Ended up, the owner had his yard do the work as they were available sooner. He paid, which was good since the actual work exceeded the estimate. When the work was done I had to pick the boat up soon or they wanted me to pay storage. Miles Marine in Gilford went to pick up the boat. They were prompt and professional, so I paid no storage.
When the boat got to Winnipesaukee, my marina had to fix the plumbing so it was legal, with no ability to discharge into the lake, before they could launch.
So, the broker was from Annapolis, the boat was in Mass, the finance came out of Ohio and the destination was Lake Winnipesaukee. I have to say that although the broker was paid by the seller, she was of enormous help in pulling everything together. She came up from MD and spent the day when we did the survey/sea trial. (
www.semmesyachts.com).
It sounds complicated and it all took from July to mid-September before we launched here, but in retrospect, things went pretty smoothly. Irwin Marine at MVYC was also great.
Cost was $450 for the survey, similar for the lift fees. The owner supplied the captain. I think transport was ~ $1000. Probably another $1000 to make the sinks, shower and head legal and launch fee at MVYC.
Summary, if you want a boat that isn't available locally, as I did, it will cost something extra. If you want something that is also available locally, savings may be more perceived than real.