Buying a used boat.

First time boat buyer here. What are some of the things I should expect or what are some of the things I should look for/ask about during the discussion, negotiating and purchasing process on a used boat from a private seller? I'm assuming a test ride is something any reasonable seller would allow?

- Ask for the ride you suggested. Run all pumps while on the water, Trolling Motor and depth finders.
- Ask for maintenance records.
- Ask about who worked on it last and follow up with that person.
- Get under the boat and inspect all scratches.
- Inspect the trailer for split finder brackets and cross member rust.
- Check all trailer lights and boat lights.
- Request a compression check read out with the hours on the motor.
- Check all hatch latches and locks.
- Make sure the Kill switch works.
- Ask about the age of the batteries.
- Check the age of the tires and spare tire.

You can easily spend a couple of thousand on fixing all these things on a used boat.

If they won't let you test drive - walk away. They're hiding something.

Do everything Donald suggested plus: take it to your own mechanic for a thorough inspection; take your time and look at multiple boats so you can be confident when you find the best fit for you; invest in research time on NADA so you will know a reasonable deal when you see it; once you buy the boat, start an accrual account in your budget to cover maintenance and things that break...and enjoy!

Pull bottom plug on lower unit, just enough to see if any water comes out.

I'd suggest checking out a few reputable boat dealers as well. They sometimes have a good deal or two. I spent a long time looking at boats being sold by individuals and ended up getting a far better deal at a boat dealer than I had found anywhere else.

Inspect the transom closely (especially on older boats).

I'm assuming water coming out is a bad thing? You just want oil in the lower unit, correct?

Water and metal shavings should get you on to the next one. Look at some of the boats on here, I've seen some really good deals.

Inspect the transom for cracks, see if it flexes, and tap on it with a socket and check for dead spots... rot.