Anyone local around the Pittsburgh area?

[Banditgrrr]

I'm located in Las Vegas and I'm working out a deal to purchase a boat that's located in Apollo, PA. I don't know the area well but it looks like it's not far from Pittsburgh. I'm trying to find out if there's anyone relatively local to Apollo, PA that would be willing to take a quick look at the boat for me. I'd be using Uship but I would like some type of piece of mind to (1) make sure the boat actually exists before sending money and (2) make sure the trailer is relatively road worthy. If anyone is willing to go take a look at it for me, please contact me and I can Paypal you a few bucks for gas if you need. Thanks.

 

[Robo]

Banditgrrr I live about 40mins out from Apollo depending on work and how quick you need this done I could do this for you.

 

[Banditgrrr]

That would be great!! I have a phone call with the seller tomorrow morning to try and work out the details. It would give me a huge piece of mind knowing that someone can put eyes on the boat before I'm sending a large amount of money to the seller. I can PM you after my call with the seller tomorrow.

 

[Robo]

Okay let me know

 

[thcole]

I am also about 40 minutes away from Apollo. Also depending on work and wife. I could try to swing out there if needed.

 

[thcole]

Also another thought, when I bought my boat out of the area I paid a marine surveyor to look at it. I think it was money well spent. He gave me like a 10 page report, down to screws that were loose under the seats. It really have me piece of mind because I could not get it into the water for months after I bought it.

 

[PEARCE]

I agree with @thcole that a surveyor would be a wise investment. We've now bought two cruiser type boats that have been used. Paying a small amount to have all things checked prior to purchase has saved us a ton of money.

 

[Banditgrrr]

I didn't know there was such a thing as a marine surveyor. I just did a Google search and found one in Pittsburg. Any idea what they would typically charge?

 

[PEARCE]

Here in Texas on cabin cruiser boats they charge by the foot. On a simpler boat such as our Yamaha they may just charge a flat rate. I would call a marina or find a boat broker to see who they would recommend. There's a certain guy in our area that everyone uses and he stays booked up for weeks.

 

[Banditgrrr]

Appreciate all the feedback and advice. I spoke with the seller and I just booked a redeye flight to go out to PA and look at the boat firsthand. If all goes well, Uship will be picking it up at noon tomorrow and I'll have my new boat by Saturday. Thanks again for all your help.

 

[thcole]

Well. That escalated quickly

 

[Banditgrrr]

LOL...I was looking at flights this morning and was surprised to a see a round trip ticket on Spirit was $92. For $92 I thought this would be the best solution and also meeting the person there from Uship at the same time. Hopefully all goes well. It's a hard deal to pass up.

 

[tdonoughue]

You're from Vegas? I would say that plane ticket and the chance at the boat was a good bet. Good luck.