Boy does this thread hit home! These past 2 weeks have been one huge emotional rollercoaster!! The guy I rent from was approached and asked if he was willing to sell his plane. Being a good friend he offered me the plane first. The plane is a 73L model with 7011hrs. 70smoh, and with T hanger and all the stuff, and junk in it!! $25,000. I have flown this plane for over thee years now and it is better than average shape. I have talk about this purchase to a couple of members of this club that I highly respect and have tore through the logs and talked to the A&P-IA who has serviced it, the bank and anyone else who would listen. One day I would be so high on owning it and the next day come down to earth and realize that I really couldn't afford it. My wife and family where 100% behind me getting it. But when it came right down to it and figuring all the expences I felt that I could not buy this plane and Keep it up to the standards of keeping it safe and well maintained. The biggest reason is of corse $$$$$$$$$$$!!!! It would more than double the cost that I spend now on flying. Although my wife doesn't enjoy flying she is 100% for me getting it! "What a Gal" But I feel that the money I would be spending for just myself isn't worth the 4-5 hrs. a month of boreing holes in the skys over home would bring. Will there be a plane in my future? Maybe, there are still options out there such as a partner or if Carl leaves me in his will!!
! But owning or renting I will still be flying which alone is a great thing that not everyone can enjoy! As a member of this club said to me, " you have to be comfortable with your decission" I am afraid that I wouldn't be! So as long as they leave renters in the club I will be seeing you at Clinton!!
