Boat title vs CG Documentation

correct, a documented boat CAN NOT be titled, that's illegal (federal reg.) in every state.

i would use the services of a documentation agency who can make sure the paperwork is all in order before you give the check to marinemax... i would NOT trust a broker. (apologies to brokers, I know there are some good / honest /serious brokers here on the site...)

Here in Europe the documentation we would require - and so should you:-

Bill of Sale
Original Vat paid invoice
CE certification (its illegal here to sell or use a boat without it)
Registry Search to ensure no debt/finance on the craft.

Booo. Hisss.
Pascal, yacht brokers who are not experts on this sort of thing are either very new to the business or will soon be selling shoes to fat ladies.
Here in Florida, any boat that is USCG documented must also be registered with the State. This proves to the nice Marine Patrolman, when he stops you, that you did indeed pay Fla. State sales tax.
Yes, a title does not factor into all this, but novice boat buyers should be aware that an additional piece of ownership paperwork (in Florida, anyway) and an accompanying orange sticker on the side window will preclude a sizable fine.

Now, lemme tell ya ' bout them delivery skippers...
[Except for Pascal who even utilizes a webcam to show that he doesn't run into things.]

Loren, this is why i mentioned that there were some "good / honest /serious" brokers on the site... but as you know there are quite a few clowns down here... and yes... clown brokers and delivery skippers!

Now how about those brokers who are also delivery captains and those captains who are also brokers!

Wait...wait... I got it! Someone who can't be trusted to run aground, right?

Actually, there seems to be a big hole in that process as boats brought into the state, specifically for sale (and not use), do not have to be registered or taxed or get that orange sticker. In other words no additional piece of ownership paperwork.