.....What would be the average price to take a used boat to a local shop and have them inspect everything to make sure the motor is good to go and not other major issues? North Texas Marine is the closest boat dealer but Fun n Sun in Hurst is the closest to the seller.

Getting engine hours and compression should take well under an hour so I wouldn't pay more than their hourly labor rate. I have had it done twice and both places did it for free and I in turn spent some money there to pay them back. Neither of these places are near your area though.

Well North Tx Marine wanted $165 plus tax and said the seller would have to leave it there for a week....not going to happen

Find you a mechanic that owns his own shop that you can trust. They should have a better price and time for it because they are more apt to want you for a return customer later. I'll Pm you a name for one in the Arlington area to talk to.