Blog | Setting Sail to Success: The Ascendance of Jake Buffaline, A Rising Star in Yacht Brokerage

Setting Sail to Success: The Ascendance of Jake Buffaline, A Rising Star in Yacht Brokerage

In the world of yacht brokerage, where navigating the seas of high-end transactions requires a unique skill set. Jake Buffaline, a rising star at 26 North Yachts. His passion for the ocean and commitment to client satisfaction have set him on a course for unparalleled success in the yacht brokerage realm.

Jake’s journey into yacht brokerage is as unique as it is impressive. While pursuing a business marketing degree at Florida Atlantic University, he concurrently owned a commercial scuba diving business “6 Feet Under”. This venture provided him with an intimate understanding of yacht maintenance and allowed him to establish connections within the industry. After graduating, Jake decided to shift his focus to yacht sales, leveraging his hands-on experience with vessels.

With a year and a half of experience in yacht brokerage, Jake is already making waves in the industry. His unconventional background and hands-on experience give him a distinctive edge in understanding the intricacies of yacht transactions.

What sets 26 North apart for Jake is the camaraderie among colleagues. He values the support and mentorship from seasoned professionals, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in overcoming challenges. For Jake, the collaborative environment at 26 North is a key factor in his success.

Building and maintaining relationships with clients is a priority for Jake. He approaches each transaction with empathy, treating clients the way he would want to be treated. By understanding a client’s specific needs and preferences, Jake ensures a personalized approach to every yacht transaction.

Jake’s approach to selecting yachts for clients is rooted in a meticulous evaluation of condition and price. Leveraging the current market inventory, he cross-shops various vessels to ensure clients get the best options available. Staying informed about yacht specifications and features is a continuous process, with Jake relying on both market analysis and the collective knowledge of his colleagues.

Active participation in industry events and organizations is a hallmark of Jake’s commitment to staying connected. As a member of both the International Yacht Brokers Association (IYBA) and Young Professionals in Yachting (YPY), Jake engages in educational seminars and networking events, staying abreast of industry trends and developments.

One of Jake’s memorable success stories involves a client he met at the 2022 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show. Despite not finding the perfect match initially, Jake stayed in touch and closely monitored the market for the client’s preferred yacht model. Timing played a crucial role, and Jake’s diligence led to the perfect opportunity, ultimately helping the couple realize their dream of owning a 2022 Absolute 58 Navetta.

Jake Buffaline‘s rise in the yacht brokerage world is marked by a blend of passion, expertise, and a commitment to client satisfaction. As he continues to make waves in the industry, Jake’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring yacht brokers and a testament to the limitless possibilities in the maritime business.