Brian, I have little knowledge re blisters
beyond my previous post, which was that prior repair would be a bad sign. I do know that a barrier coat is often discussed as part of blister repair. I do know from first had experience that a barrier coat will merely trap moisture in the hull if the hull is not "dry" and a moisture meter must be used to determine the moisture percentage. I forget what an acceptable moisture number is. What is of significance is that the time to "dry" a hull is in the range of days to months, so keep this in mind.On the broker issue, I am well versed. Unless you are the exception and had a contract with "your broker" to find you a boat, the broker is working soley for the seller. Anything the broker tells you, unless it is written into the purchase/sale agreement as a representation of fact is mere "puffing" and salesmanship, which you would expect of the broker selling your boat. Assuming that if the seller insists on the original agreed price, you are going to walk, then tell the broker "no deal, unsatisfactory survey". And having made your best guess as to the repair costs of all issues you know you will need to correct, make a "new" reduced offer. If your best guess on repair costs are based on a repair yard's estimate, add 30% to estimated costs. Other than perhaps paint work, yards rarely will give you a bid or fixed price offer. A yard "estimate" is usually just a best guess as to what the labor and materials will end up being. I would never do a deal where I was obligated to purchase contingent on seller making repairs. Remember, repairs usually don't add value (above cost) to a boat. Be a hard ass in the purchase process. You mantra is " I can walk away" unless you've already been smitten and bitten w/the love bug..Scott