Man, you guys are a rough crowd. One half-way positive response to a
new boat buyer. Is that how you guys typically welcome new folks?

You just asked the wrong "first question" if you were hoping to feel good
about your decision. Bottom line - boats are traditionally maintenance
whores. If you buy one that you wouldn't want to sleep with in the first
place, what's the point?

If you simply want to feel warm and welcomed by this *community* of boaters,
ask how you can go about fixing the problems you will find (and yes,
undoubtedly you will find them - guaranteed). You will typically be quite
pleased by the quality of information and the willingness of others to take
the time to help you out.

Keep in mind - when you receive the so-called negative responses, a lot of
us are speaking from first-hand experiences of our own. My situation isn't
much different than yours. I purchased my first boat less than two years
ago. I paid $5000 for a 35 year old ski boat with some "soft spots" on the
floor. Did I have it surveyed? Nope. In the first 12 months I spent
nearly $10,000 replacing the interior, including all upholstery, all
flooring, and a good portion of the stringers. So, $15,000 in, did I have a
solid boat? Nope, I'm just now wrapping up a $5000 engine rebuild. So, for
$20,000 do I have a solid boat? Nope, I will always have a 35+ year old ski
boat. Is the boat worth the money I've spent on it? Nope - I've seen
similar ones go for under $12,000. Does that mean I regret my decisions?
No freakin way! I love the thing to death. It's an attention getter and
has enough unique qualities to allow others to appreciate it as well. It's
always a good feeling to have strangers gawk at a boat that you've poured
your soul into (soul=paychecks?) - it's like being a proud daddy.

BUT, by having my experience, I can look at your decision and know exactly
where you are at. A *little* excited about a new toy and a new hobby.
Believe me, that excitement will turn to frustration and regrets before you
know it. I can honestly say I was near vomitting within my first week of
boat ownership. What the hell had I done??

The only difference I see in your new toy - is that you would have a rather
worthless investment after a proper restoration (investing $15,000 might
allow you to sell it for a few hundred more than what you paid). Does that
matter? No way - it's all what you make of it.

Are the responses you received unfair? Certainly not. When we say you made
a stupid decision, it's only because we know them all to well.

Once again - welcome to boating. As I've come to learn - 40 hours of
*boating* on land might buy you a couple hours of *boating* on the water.
Both can be great hobbies. I honestly can say I don't know which one I
enjoy more.

Good luck to you.