Kyles advice is right on. I would add "buy an airplane that you can afford
to fly without thinking about the expense" I know some frustrated pilots
who don't fly much because the Baron (or whatever) is expensive enough that
they don't fly it unless they really need to go somewhere. Also I would
prefer an airplane that I could keep at the nearest airport. So if the
nearest airport does not have hanger space availible, get an airplane that
you are willing to leave outside.

Mike
MU-2

"Kyle Boatright" wrote in message
...

"KayInPA" wrote in message
om...
Hello,

I am seriously considering the purchase of an airplane and would like
to ask the group for potential dos and don'ts. I would so appreciate
any guidance, advice, or practical tips other pilots in this newsgroup
could offer. Also, to ask about any financial considerations that my
not be obvious to a first time owner.

If I decide to go forward, I'll be buying the airplane with a partner;
a friend of mine who is beginning his instrument studies. We are
looking in the $60k - $100k price range and prefer Cessnas because
we're training in 172s. However, if we find the right deal, other
manufacturers might also be considered.

Thanks so much in advance for any help you could give us.

--
Kay
Student Pilot
email: remove "ns" from the end of aviationns

1) Figure out what your "mission" is, then buy the airplane for that
mission.
2) Don't buy the first airplane you look at.
3) Don't buy an airplane because it has a pretty paint job.
4) Find a good mechanic (get references) who is familiar with the
aircraft
type you're looking at. Preferably this mechanic will be at your home
field. Explain to the mechanic that not only are you looking for an
airplane, you're looking for a mechanic. Have that mechanic do your
pre-purchase inspection.
5) Buy the nicest (i.e. best equipped, properly maintained) airplane you
can afford. It'll be cheaper in the long run than upgrading an airplane
with a bad paint job, used up engine, or ancient avionics.

KB