Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat
I'll jump in on this from the experience that I've had in the last couple years.. I'm sure more specific info on brands will be coming soon.
In my opinion, for a used boat, brand names don't matter NEARLY as much as who owned it and how well he/she took care of it. Look for a boat that has obviously been taken care of, been covered (ideally garage stored), and has had all the routine maintenance done. If you live in a cold climate, DON'T assume that since the floor feels solid on a 10 degree day that it is (made that mistake, have a new floor now). Try not to allow your excitement to cloud your judgement and push you into making a very expensive mistake!
I did everything wrong when I bought my second boat. DON'T take the previous owner's word for anything that you aren't willing to fix. I got lucky with the engine/drive with mine and it didn't need too much work (fuel pump, tuneup). DO insist on a sea trial before money changes hands (unless you are paying next to nothing for it), ask for any records the owner might have, ask for advice from iboats users. Be sure that the engine and all other components of the boat operate properly. Check/replace the bearings (or have them checked/replaced) on the trailer. Trailer repairs are not cheap, especially if you are on the road (again, voice of experience)! A "small soft spot in the floor" usually isn't small, so unless you are willing to rip it all out, keep looking. My "soft spot" behind the ski locker turned into this major project:
My first boat falls into many peoples' "stay away" category (1987 Bayliner), but it was very well maintained and it was obvious that its owner had taken very good care of it. I spent only a little time and almost NO money (other than gas) on it and sold it for more than I paid for it to someone who will enjoy it for years to come.
The boat I have now was originally a really nice boat, but sat uncovered for far too long and didn't get the care a boat needs/deserves. As a result, I've spent a LOT of time and money on it since I got it. On paper, the boat will probably never be worth what I've spent on it, but I have a hard time imagining that I'll ever sell it.
In the end, get something that has the space to fit your family (and friends) as comfortably as possible and has the power to do what you want it to do. You can always back off the throttle in a boat that has ample power. It's not so simple to make an underpowered boat more powerful. I'm sure I'm missing a lot of items here, but it's a start! Happy hunting!
-Carl
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