Buyers Guide

[fbchristo]

I started out with my eye on a new cat (model to be determined) but the more I read articles and postings (like on this site) I think might be better suited with a 3-5 year old (non charter) cat that will allow me the funds to do some upgrades in exchange for that new-boat smell. What I can’t seem to find is a “buyers guide”. Now this subject may have been addressed in earlier postings, if so I apologize for the redundancy, but just what are the steps involved in buying, especially a used catamaran; either from the point that I have identified a particular boat or, if not, are sources besides magazines and web sites for used boats, and what comes after you have decided. I hear about marine surveys, sea tests, etc but in what order does that come. Since I am assuming that I will be footing the bill for a survey, do I do this before I have made an offer on a boat or after it has been made and money has changed hands? I don’t imagine they are cheap and doing several might eat up my budget for other things. Also, depending on the survey, is it reasonable to expect the owner to address/fix those issues that come up? As far as a sea test in a variety of conditions, is it ever possible for the prospective buyer to rent/charted the boat for “x” number of days before they make an offer. Are there other steps to take? No response is too basic, since I can sail ‘em but I have no experience in buying anything beyond a beach cat.
Thanks in advance
Fred