I had good luck buying from an internet dealer. The guy (ITB Marine) is just a
front for a real Merc dealer (Big Ed from Richmond Va) who is exploiting the
special price they can offer on a "bundled" (boat & motor)deal without you
having to buy a boat.
I never had a problem with local dealers. If you go in for your hourly checkups
and let him in your wallet you will be buddies for life.