I'm fixin' to buy my first boat but, I wanted some folks to steer me in the right direction before i made the purchase.  I like to avoid paying stupid tax where possible.  I'm looking for a welded aluminum boat I can take in rivers and smaller lakes.  I went and looked a Waco 16 1/2 foot flat bottom yesterday that seemed to fit the bill.  I can't find a lot of info on Waco (besides being out N. Little Rock).  Here's the link - tell me what y'all think:

 

http://fayar.craigslist.org/boa/3624035013.html

 

I don't know what questions to ask or what to look for to ensure it's not a lemon.  And, if I don't get this boat, I'd appreciate some other things to consider when looking for others.  Tell me the things you wish you'd known before buying your first boat.

 

Let me know if I've left any info out that would be helpful.

 

Thanks, Spencer.

Looks pretty clean.We always recommend having the motor checked out by a mechanic. See if he'll take you out for a test ride. If he won't, forget the deal. You want to make sure everything works, Livewell, bilgepump, power trim(if equipped), TM, electronics. Look at the hull for any deep gouges that may be a sign of a leak. Look at the hull for anything that looks odd. I've seen a couple welded hulls that are warped from stress. You can check the wheel bearings on the trailer by grabbing hold of the tires wit both hands and shaking them front and back checking for movement. Good luck

Thanks slone - that helps.  I was too slow on this boat.  By the time I went to test drive it he had already sold it.  I'll keep my eyes peeled for another one.  I appreciate everyone's insight on the forums.