Questions on buying a seacraft

[kpeet]

I am looking at a 1973 20ft SeaCraft with a 2002 Merc optimax 135hp. Motor has 150 hrs boat was redone in 2002. its in decent shape im going to make an offer on it this afternnon but i want to know exactly what i should look for this is my first seacraft and dont want to buy a lemon any help is greatly appreciated thanks

[kpeet]

I am going to offer 7k does anyone have advice im nervous and i know im new here sorry but i figured yall knw your seacrafts

[Old'sCool]

Lots of good reading on this site. Read and do your homework. 7k sounds fair to me for that motor w/boat "redone" on '02. "Redone" has different meanings to differrent people. A marine survey will run ~ $350 and is $$$ well spent.

[Ryan]

3 major things, 1 transom, has it been redone? are there spots where holes have been drilled ie transducers, swim ladder, kicker bracket, that can let moisture in and lead to rot. 2 Deck has it been redone? is it soft anywhere? 3 fuel tank. is it original? new? has it been pressure tested or cleaned? these are the major things to consider on the hull.
Now on the motor you would want to have the motor inspected by your mechanic if possible. Btw a friend here in s fl just bought an 01 for 12k in pertty decent shape. If you are unsure i would call in a surveyor, its cheap compared to repair bills that can be neccesary.

[ReelToy]

If you are serious about the boat a survey is cheap insurance. It saved me alot of money before. Also 7000.00 is a great deal. People are hurting from the economy right now and you might get a real deal and help someone out.