Survey?
Hi Roger: No offense meant, but the fact that you have to ask that question tells me you need a professional survey. In my area they charge about $10 a ft and it is worth every penny. With all that being said, I would think the biggest thing is bottom blisters, make sure the bottom is clean and blister free. The overall cleanliness of the boat tells you a great deal about how the previous owner cared for their boat. Does everything work? Check every faucet, fan, light, pump, hatch and switch. A clean dry bilge speaks volumes of the care that boat has had. All boats do NOT have water in their bilge. Is the engine clean and are all connections tight? How is the running rigging? How is the standing rigging? Manufacturers recommend replacing every 10 years or so, if yours is original, it is over 15 years old. How many hours on the engine? How old are the batteries, do the cushions smell musty? Can you smell diesel in the cabin? (You shouldn't.) Not all boats will be perfect, but the above mentioned items make great negotiating points. good luck, Dave S/V Westwind
