OK, This is a real querry.

I just got a lead on a "1964 38' Chris Craft sedan". It has been stored
under tarps next to a barn for about 8 years. The story goes that the
owner was refurbishing it and shortly before cvompletion he died. His
widow is now infirm and liver across the country, so the nephew is
selling it to help his aunt.

About all he knows is that it has twin 210 hp GM engines and a 5Kw
gernerator.

I have been around fiberglass sailboats all my life and I was thining
about getting a powerboat. This one is priced at $12,500, but the
seller is 'very motivated' and would consider all offers.

What should I look for before getting a surveyor? I realize that
leaving mechanical things for a long time isn' very good, but if the
price is reasonable... I just have no clue about the cost of engine
rebuilds, effects of a wooden hull sitting for that long, etc.

I'm in northern California, so the climate is mild, and it would
probably be less than a 10 mile trip by truck to the water.

Having said that, chime in with your thoughts. I'm going to look at it
later today and I'll update this posting.
Thanks a lot for taking the time to read and reply.