first time boat buyer

gonna buy used boat. have looked at rinker and reinell and searay.

Are these better than most?

have found 2005 reinell 205 for $16,500 gonna look at it tomorrow
what should i look for and listen for during test drive.

and what is a fair price? thanks for insight!

Re: first time boat buyer

Look at the transom for any cracks, repairs, damage, screw holes not properly sealed, etc. If there are any streaks or stains it probably means water leaked in these areas and slowly leaked out after trailering. Under the rub rail is an often overlooked source for leaks. Look closely at the swim ladder mounting for loose brackets or any signs of spider cracking. After the test drive run the bilge pump or pull the drain plug and see if any water comes out.

If possible, make sure you are there when the motor is started cold. You want to see the motor start right up without having to do a "rain dance". If it has an hour meter, check that. Of course, it should shift smoothly into forward and reverse gear and get up on plane without much trouble. Other than that, I don't know what to tell you to listen for. If it runs it runs.

I don't know much about them, but Reinell looks like a nice boat. Good luck with your purchase!

-my .02