Thinking about purchasing a used boat in the next few months. I have never had a boat before. Just wondering if anyone has any thoughts on things to keep in mind, warning signs of potential problems to look for, or any help at all. Only things I want for sure is something with storage areas, and raised seats. Most of my fishing is on electric only lakes, however it would spend time in the Potomac River.

what kinda boat?

There's an entire section on boating and buying a boat on this forum. Read the articles thoroughly, then come back and ask questions.

http://bassresource.com/fishing/bass_boats.html

You need to read the articles on this forum.

You need to visit a retail boat outlet to see the new boats and discuss them with the salespeople to gete their information.  You do not have to purchase a new boat, just get their suggestions about boats and what to look for.  

If you are going to buy a Bass Cat, then go to a Bass Cat dealer.  Same for Ranger, Trition, Tracker, etc.  Get their input and the details on what makes their new boats the best and apply those guidelines to your used boat.

The guys will probably have a lot of info for you.

For now, may I suggest....

1.  Have a compression test of the motor and have the motor checked out by a manufacturer's repair shop. Be sure to have the lower unit checked, too.  Is the prop OK?  Any nicks, cuts or whacks in prop?  Any second prop going with the boat? How old are the spark plugs?  Water pump in good condition?

2.  Have the boat checked out by a reputable boat repair shop as they can tell you what items that can cause you heartburn that they have found.  This is to include all the cables and connections.

3.  Be ready to replace the batteries unless they are new.  And look at the battery charger.  Is it outdated or relatively new?

4.  Make sure all electrical systems are in good working order and that the fuse box is in good condition.

5.  Look for any cracks or nicks in the hull.

6.  Check the carpet.  Is it in good condition or will it have to be repaired or replaced in the near future.

7.  Have the trailer checked out, too.  Plus the tires and ball bearing packing in the wheels. Any "burned" ball bearings? Do the lights work?  Is there a spare tire?  Any rust?  Axel in good condition? Winch works?  Stainless steel hook at end of the winch strap OK or is it damaged?

8.  Any electronics on the boat?  Do they work?  In front of boat by trolling motor and also at console?

9.  Look at the trolling motor.  What condition is it in?  How is the prop?  And spare parts or props?  Does it have a "Gator Mount" with the springs to help it bounce off underwater structure?  What is it's power?  Can it's power be updated to a higher power (47 pounds up to 67 pounds for example)?

10. What tools come with the boat? Is there an Owners Manual?

There are so many things to look for that you really need to read the articles and talk to others who have the same boat.

I could go on but I have said enough.

Good luck and let us know what model Ranger you get. ;D

I just got a 14 foot jon boat for christmas, never had a boat before.

If it is a used  boat, check  the fuel lines  replace them if needed

I was up til 2:30 a.m replacing fuel lines so as not to dissapoint my son  got it done and still hit the lake by 5:30 a.m