posted this in baja thread but i think i can get more responses here...

Going to finally look at my first 2005 25 Outlaw. It has the 496HO with 222 hours. Boat is all stock.

Can anyone tell me what imperfections I should look for when I'm there?


Guy started asking 44k, but then told me he'd take 37k. I told him that was still a little outta my price range and he is pushing for me to come look at the boat because he just put a down payment on a new boat. What is a good price to get a low hour 2005 25 outlaw with 496HO for? Nada says 33k for average but these people selling their boats always shoot higher then that.

Nada is a fair starting point, then you have to consider the upgrades and what they may be worth to you. A survey from a reputable source may be a good investment.

At that price point you need to get a survey.

If the hull, drive & bilge (and engine) are clean it hasn't lived in the water and you probably won't have problems with its structure / rot / osmosis. You might want a Merc mechanic to check the engine & drive, he can scan engine for run history and you'll probably be surprised at how easy it's been used (if the owner is a mature operator). I bought a Fountain with 525s and over half the run time was at idle with less than 5% above 4200 rpm and very little over 4700 rpm. Unless you know history for sure replace engine & drive fluid - cheap insurance. As for price, I traded (this year) a 2000 Baja 272 w 454 mag & 1000+ hours (it was clean & maintained w records), got 25 K trade and dealer sold within 2 weeks asking 30K. I think there is a good market for these boats. Have fun.

That's a pretty common model / power. Look around at some of the boating sites and see what others are asking for a similar boat.