I'm thinking about getting a boat to use with the family. I live near
Folsom lake in California and am likely the only person in town
without a boat. I think I'd like to start small by buying something
under $5K that I could sell next year or so if the family decides that
they are becoming bored with it. Also, since I already own one
airplane and am thinking about buying a second airplane, I don't think
my wife would appreciate a really expensive boat.
I saw an ad for a 1990 Bayliner Capri 18' boat that would seem to fit
the bill. They're asking $3K. I'm looking for something the 4 of us
could lounge on and maybe ski off of (possibly if we learn). Also, my
existing SUV only has a 3500 lb towing capacity so I think that
somewhat limits my choices.
Do you have suggestions for first time owners? I'm sure there is
always the possibility that I could end up wigth someone else's junk.
What questions do you ask sellers? What things do you look for to
ensure that the boat has the best chance of not being junk? Since I'm
not talking about spending a whole lot of money its not a super risk
but if I bought something that turned out to be junk the wife would
just assume that boats suck and lose any interest.

-Robert