Splendid Aviation Inc.

I recently purchased an aircraft for Splendid Aviation. We needed another primary trainer who could attract clients who wanted power and technology. Therefore, we chose a Piper Cherokee 180. This aircraft had GPS, a Glass Cockpit, a new paint job, Bluetooth, and full autopilot. 

If you're in the market for a trainer, here are some of my thoughts that may or may not help you in your endeavor:

1. Have funding available at a moment's notice. If the aircraft of your dreams becomes available online, hundreds of like-minded people want that same aircraft. Therefore, it is essential to be ready to travel at a moment's notice to make that purchase.
2. Make it a job to search for new postings every day. The early bird gets the worm, and you want to take advantage of a great deal.
3. Hire your own A&P for a pre-buy, and do not trust a Local A&P, especially if you're purchasing from a small town. I have an A&P from New Jersey that I use for the majority of my purchases. Not only does he conduct a thorough pre-buy, but he also flies the aircraft. Out of all my purchases and many mistakes with A&Ps, he's always been a sure bet. Here are some other checklist items to consider: 
4. Ensure you personally look at the details when Inspecting the aircraft.
5. Check for corrosion on the Spar.
6. Check for bad or cracked engine mounts.
7. Check for corrosion on the paint or inside the paint.
8. Check seats and interior plastics for wear and tear.
9. Check for oil leaks where the crankcase halves connect.
10. Check and ensure the Fuel tank vents.
11. Ensure ALL avionics are correctly working.
12. Ensure all small details are found in the aircraft books. Here are a few examples:
13. Ensure completion of the 500 hr inspection for the Magnetos.
14. Note the hours flown between Annual Inspections (Be weary of Hangar Queens)
15. Note any significant maintenance conducted in the past.
16. Note any engine overhauls to include top Overhauls.
17. Ensure the VFR and IFR Currency is up to date. You want to be able to fly the aircraft home legally.
18. After spending money on a pre-buy and traveling to see the aircraft, always be willing to walk away, especially if the seller refuses to ferry the aircraft to you or cover the expenses if the aircraft breaks down before arriving at your destination airport. 
19. There's nothing worse than buying an aircraft and getting stuck in Jonesboro, Arkansas, on a Saturday when no services were available. Luckily, the citizens of this great town took great care of us, including the Searcy Aviation. They removed and replaced a bad Magneto. Excellent service and fair pricing.   
20. Lastly, ensure the seller thoroughly familiarizes you with the aircraft before you take ownership of it. Here are some examples:
21. If the aircraft is equipped with ADS-B In and Out, ensure you can connect it to your device.
22. Know what that particular aircraft's climb and cruise speeds are.
23. Know if the engine likes to be primed when it's hot.
24. This avoids confusion after your first fuel stop.

Lastly, remember that most aircraft you intend to purchase in General Aviation are over 20 years old and will be flawed. You need to consider whether it fits your needs and assess how much you're going to spend in the upcoming year or two. However, if you're looking for an airworthy aircraft that will not cause significant issues in the upcoming year, be wary of a seller not willing to ferry the plane for you.