Newbie needs advice on purchase

[turtle10786]

Hi Folks,
I just saw this ad on my local craig's list.
For sale 2005 Bennington Pontoon in very good condition!!! $4,900.00
Pontoon length 25, Fuel 26 gallons, Deck lenght 24 feet 11 inches, Hull material aluminum
Deck width 8 feet 6 inches, Trailer included, Pontoon diameter .090, Motor mercury optimax 115 4 stroke, Prop stainless
Extra options:
Slide top refreshment table
Chaise lounge with waste container
Sundeck
Ski tow bar
Mood lighting
Cup holders (9)
Helm chair
Removable bow seat
Double bimini top (quick release)
Playpen cover
Deluxe recliners (2)
Alpine stereo with cd and four speaker system
Instrument cluster with speedo and depth gauge
Pop up changing room
Hydrolic steering
I contacted the owner and he states that the boat is in transit to a local location and that the cost of shipping is included in the price. The "toon" is listed as having 450 hrs on it but I am unable to view it at this time. Is this a case of "if its too good to be true, it probably is! How would I determine the history of such a boat? As I am a total novice to this boat buying adventure I need some expert advice.
Thanks

[mike]

I dont think I would trust that deal, I would ask why its so underpriced and if he is the title holder. Probably wants you to send him a deposit to hold it for you... BE CAREFUL!

[lakerunner]

Mike is right, keep you wallet in check for now.

[badmoonrising]

Way to good to be true IMO but I could be wrong. I know of no way of verifying boat hull ID #s either. Could be stolen, etc.

[brumbyvet.1044]

The Mercury Optimax is a two stroke motor not a four stroke. If seller is unaware of this I would beware. I agree, something doesn't sound right about this deal...

[jepperson]

It's probably a scam, never buy anything off of craigslist that includes shipping to your destiniation......

[WaltF]

Also, it states "Pontoon diameter .090"

ahhh no.... thats the thickness of the Aluminum... NOT the dia of the toon....

Keep the money in the pocket unless you can SEE this thing.....
Even then, proceed with caution.

Good deals can be had on there....
Just gotta separate the crooks from the real people...

[turtle10786]

Thanks for everyone's input...I thought that this didn't sound right, so I'm waiting until I can see the goods in person or no sale. Again, thanks for all your expertise, it was a great help.

[fishmor]

All you have to do is to tell them that you will come and pick the boat up and pay cash-you will never hear from them again.

[wish2fish]

do an internet search for "2005 Bennington Pontoon Alpine" and you will come up with the same boat all over the country. @ $4900 it wouldn't last long if it were real.

That ad has been in the Cincy market as well.