Definitely get a prebuy inspection from an A&P/IA that is not the plane’s regular mechanic. Carefully review all the logbooks. My logbooks tell the story of a plane that had a lot of upgrades and TLC. Order the aircraft records on file with the FAA for $12 or pay for a title search. AOPA has an excellent purchase agreement that covers pretty much everything. Do your research on available aircraft in your budget range before you even begin to shop. Keep some funds in reserve for unexpected repairs. I was fortunate enough to find an A&P who became a good friend and let’s me assist him and learn all about my 150. All of us here in the club will try to help you any way we can! Planes cost some money to keep up but in my experience, much less than keeping up a boat!
