If I was absolutely sure Boat #1 was "The One", I would seek to put a down payment on said boat. That will leave you 3 or 4 months to get all your ducks in a row for when it is time to hook it up to the truck. If not, rest assure come this Fall or winter there will be deals galore out there. Never know what might come your way. Most boat ownerships regrets come when you are in too much of a hurry and just can't stand it and you got to have it. Do your homework

I am doing a trip in THE boat next week where I'll get to check everything out and fish the whole day in it as well. I'll be sure to chat with him then about a deposit. As far as I'm concerned, even with somebody else being interested in the boat, if the seller can't accept a deposit from me then that may be a red flag for me. It would suggest that he's leaning towards the other prospective buyer or leaning towards not selling at all. Either way it should give me a better idea. He did tell me that he wanted to give me an opportunity to see the boat before he accepted any money so hopefully next week comes with great news!

What brand & model is "The" boat ?

both are nitro z7's

if it Fly's, Floats, or F's.. then rent it is what my dad always said.

Never ever have HOT PANTS for anything. mistake #1 most buyers make. If you want boat #1, put a deposit on it and get some sort of Written document with "intent to sell" if the seller would agree.

I'll bet that by September, you'll find another boat that's even better than Boat #1 in your senario.

Those the only two boats that appeal to you ? You not considering any other brand ? I've seen a lot of good deals on here, Boat Trader and Craigslist that are ready now. If your wanting or needing a boat now I wouldn't tie myself strictly to those two unless they are just dirt cheap.

do a deposit deal and get it in writing, get a compression check on any used boat, never every have HOT PANTS,...
slow down take your time,..you'll be glad you did..

Buy some jet skis and live it up in the summer. Then, sell those things and go back to the boring days and ways of fishing in Sept.

Boat #1 is a steal. It's a RARE deal considering price, added upgrades, condition, etc. I've talked to the guy several times and I'm going to say it's 1 in 100 to find this boat in this shape at this price. If the boat was one of many fish in the pond then I would have no good reason to hold out for this particular boat but I have several good reasons for holding out for this particular boat.

Since you said #2 boat just lacks some bells and whistles, why not just buy some and equip #2 boat?

If I equipped boat #2 with the upgrades that boat #1 has I'd spend 10k more than what boat #1 costs. See my point?

Cost, value, upgrades, warranty, boat 1 has it all.

As long as it isn't too good to be true. And it is the boat you want then buy it.

Sounds to good to be true

I'll find out next week.

Hope it works out for you, do you plan on having it inspected by a trusted repair shop?