Buying my first boat

[mjfarina]

Hello all!

This is my first post on here and I am looking for a little info as I am looking to buy my first boat.

I am most likely going to be on the Chesapeake and am looking for a Catalina in the 27-30 ft range.

I'm not having any problem finding boats to look at but am wondering if anyone has a surveyor in the northern Ches area that they would recommend and also if anyone has a ball park price of what I would expect to pay for this service?

Also if anyone is aware of some common problems with these boats to be aware of as I take a look at different boats on my own so that I can weed the bad ones out before I go to far along with deal.

Also if you have any other suggestions on good northern Ches Bay cruising boats that would be appreciated as well.
I'm looking for shoal draft and something comfortable and safe to take my family (wife and 2 young girls under 3) out for weekends.
Budget is in the 10k-20k range.

Thanks in advance for any help on this!

Mike

[rbk]

Popular production boat and did the research years ago and one area to look out for in a specific run of boats is separation at the keel due to poor backing of the keel bolts. Google Catalina smile and you'll find lots of info. Not all are subject to but I believe it was early 80's to '86 and certain models. I'm sure some owners will jump in with the exact info.

[Paul L]

Good choice for a first boat