I also had a great
surveyor but he still missed several obvious things. Way to much to go through in 8 or so hours and he worked his butt off. I planned on sticking right next to him to learn more about the
boat but soon realized it was best to let him do his job without me on his shoulder. If he is good, he will call you over to show you things (good and bad). Verify he will go up the
mast to check the
rigging, most do not, but mine did. If you are familiar with
boating, it's best to do your own
inspection and go all through the boat.
One BIG thing I would do. List out EVERYTHING you expect to be part of the deal and take pictures and have them attached to the final
contract. I bought my boat 1200 miles away and when I got back after the deal, the owner removed A LOT of items that were to remain and I had no real recourse to get them back. (he even took the life jackets)!
When you're
buying a boat away from home, every little thing counts regardless how
cheap they are. It all adds up fast.
PS: still figure on a easy 10k after you buy it..