Finding the right experimental aircraft for sale can be a daunting task, not for a lack of offers, but because you need to know what exactly is on offer: is it a plane, is it a tail fin, is it a set of plans, or is it only a crate full of spare parts...?
The main thing is whether you are searching for a complete aircraft, or for an aircraft "project". In the case of the latter you could save a lot of money, but you will need to be geared for a long process before lifting off on that first test flight!
However, whether you are looking for the complete plane or the project, with homebuilt or experimental aircraft for sale there are a number of important things to consider:
1. Because experimental aircraft for sale are mostly home assembled or completely homebuilt (either off plans or as a kit) the workmanship and standard can vary greatly. Before even considering a purchase, you will need to at least get access to a lot of clear and close-up pictures showing details of the work.
2. You will need to see proof of how closely the manufacturer's plans were followed during the construction phase of the particular experimental aircraft for sale. Any modifications must be clearly described and motivated. Not everyone building an aircraft in the shed is an aeronautical engineer...
3. The question of why the owner offers his experimental aircraft for sale should also be probed to set your mind at ease. In the case of a completed, "flying project" the reason could be as simple as that the owner wants to use the proceeds of the sale to finance a subsequent building project.
Many incomplete projects are for sale as numerous homebuilt enthusiasts underestimate the time and commitment it takes to complete such a long term project! Buying a partially completed quality-built project can make the difference for many between actually seeing it through to the end, or abandoning it after a while.
4. If you're aiming to buy that "sort-of-started" or "well-into-the-process" experimental aircraft for sale, you will need precise information about how far the project actually is. You should also find out exactly in what condition the kit is, for instance whether the remaining parts are still wrapped and crated, and whether the completed section had been properly stored and protected.
5. As some of the experimental aircraft for sale projects get sold on only after years of non-activity, you will need to ensure that factory support is still available for that particular aircraft.
So, whether you're interested in that half-built RANS with the wings still in the crate, or that sleek, beckoning Pulsar XP already gleaming on the runway, make sure of what you want, and make sure of what you're getting into. Buying an experimental aircraft for sale is a decision that will affect your life - and that of your family - for a long time to come...
