Check out Miami boat for me?

[FruiVita]

I saw a thread here in which someone suggested having a fellow CFer check out a boat on behalf of another member. This would be for a situation when someone is considering buying a boat that's located far from home. Has anyone had experience with this? I live in VA and am interested in a boat currently located near Miami, FL. Rather than spend hundreds to do an initial inspection in person I'm thinking of finding someone reasonably knowledgeable in that area to check it out for me. Of course that person wouldn't be able to determine whether I'd like the boat. However, they would be able to tell me if there are obvious, serious issues that might cause me to lose interest. For example, if there's a lot of oil under the engine, evidence of a soft deck, water stains in the cabin, or similar problems that person could save me from wasting time and money to see a dog of a boat. If the person looking at the boat doesn't find significant problems I would then perform my own inspection. Anyone in Miami interested in doing this?

[Richard Jordan]

If it is a brokerage boat, then I might be able to do it. I often take photos and send back a + / - sheet for clients. I'll probably be in North Miami manana. RJ

[FruiVita]

I should mention that I am not looking to engage a buyer-broker. I'm looking for a regular CFer who might happen to be in the area and wouldn't mind doing a quick walk-around and sharing his/her impressions. However, I could throw a few dollars his/her way via Paypal to cover gas and lunch. If that is acceptable (Richard?) then please PM me.

[FruiVita]

Got a PM that suggested I might want to clarify "a few dollars". I am willing to pay $75 for someone who is reasonably knowledgeable about sail boats to check out a boat in Ft. Lauderdale on my behalf. I'd be looking for a complete walk-through with an email of what is discovered, along with some photos of things that might be of concern (if anything). To reiterate: I'm not looking to engage a buyer-broker, just seeking a local CFer who might be looking for a way to kill an hour and make a few bucks. Any takers?

[vtcapo]

Originally Posted by FruiVita

Got a PM that suggested I might want to clarify "a few dollars". I am willing to pay $75 for someone who is reasonably knowledgeable about sail boats to check out a boat in Ft. Lauderdale on my behalf. I'd be looking for a complete walk-through with an email of what is discovered, along with some photos of things that might be of concern (if anything). To reiterate: I'm not looking to engage a buyer-broker, just seeking a local CFer who might be looking for a way to kill an hour and make a few bucks. Any takers?

The individual who is helping me refit my boat in Ft. Lauderdale is a professional that has forgotten more about boats then I will ever know. He guided me in the purchase of my Slocum 37 after he advised me to forego three other possibilities.

But his services are not free. $50/hr plus travel expenses which shouldn't be much since he lives in Ft. Lauderdale. If interested I can hook you up.

RT
PS BTW it will be the best $50/hr. you will ever spend. He knows his ****..

[Tellie]

I've got some free time towards the middle to the end of next week. If you'd like you can PM me for my cell number.

[motion30]

If tellie can not do it maybe I can

[Richard Jordan]

Originally Posted by FruiVita

Got a PM that suggested I might want to clarify "a few dollars". I am willing to pay $75 for someone who is reasonably knowledgeable about sail boats to check out a boat in Ft. Lauderdale on my behalf. I'd be looking for a complete walk-through with an email of what is discovered, along with some photos of things that might be of concern (if anything). To reiterate: I'm not looking to engage a buyer-broker, just seeking a local CFer who might be looking for a way to kill an hour and make a few bucks. Any takers?

I'll do it as a CF'er. I might already have been on the boat or need to look at her for another client. Or maybe we should all meet up and have a good time...lunch at the Briny Pub afterwards? RJ

[FruiVita]

Thanks for all the offers. Tellie checked her out for me and provided enough detailed photos and info that I was able to make an informed decision. The boat was suspect in several areas so I bailed. Well worth the expense and I highly recommend Tellie for anyone considering having an inspection done. Not a survey but pretty thorough.