I know I would be driving to springfield,IL if you wanted a 242LS.

You guys crack me up. The OP is looking for a single engine 24" boat and you're trying to talk him into a 30'+ with twins? I know you mean well but that just badf advice.

Secondly. Boats with fresh mechanicals, paint and interior do command a higher price. Take any of those boats that are still original or near original and you better keep $10K laying around becuase you'll be needing real soon.

And I guarantee that real cheap one for $6,500 has flunked a few surveys already.

I'm an hour from the Springfield boat if the OP wants a set of eyes on it.

I flew to Chicago from Nj in snow, rented a U-Haul and drove back in snow with my new to me 1986 242 LS. Excellent condition. $11,700 with custom trailer included. Originally belonged to a forum member who took really good care of it. I saw another in Mass? that was a complete redo, stringers up, for 25K.