[hharney]

Something to keep in mind when searching for the right aircraft. The bargains out there are only going to help with the initial burden. There are Skymasters out there for lower prices and there is a reason for that. You have to be really careful with this category of aircraft. It's not like fixing up a 172 or Cherokee. This is a complex, twin engine aircraft. So that said beware of the fixer uppers. They will eat you alive in repairs and maintenance. Take your time in this kind of a decision and if you can't afford the one you want (or need) save your money over time to purchase the right aircraft. They will be out there when you are ready. With the economy, today is a buyers market. Someone that invested $50K in avionics 24 months ago is only going to make $20-30K back (if that) depending on the package that was installed. If you go out and have a shop install that package it will cost you at least $50K today. So in today's market you are better to buy an aircraft that has what you want (need) on it already than to upgrade it yourself.

The only difference in the scenario above would be if you had some source available to save a lot of money by buying a fixer upper. Like if you were an A&P you could save some serious money doing it yourself. Now you have to have the time (time is money) and the patience to perform all the work. Again, this is not a 172 project. The other issue I see to buying a fixer upper is the condition of the aircraft. There is a reason that the airplane is selling so low. The worst and hardest condition on a complex aircraft like a Skymaster is non-use, non-hangered, poor and neglected maintenance. Those are the conditions that will eat you alive.

Just my thoughts