Storage lots are a great source of cheap boats. My first cat was a Prindle 16. I was looking at a "For Sale" Hobie 16 in the lot. It was junk, soft and sunburnt. Over in a corner was this overgrown P16 with a 9 year old license plate. When asked about it they said,"We bought the lot 3 years ago and there was no correct phone or address for LOTS of boats. If you can figure out how we can legally sell it to you, anything here is yours for $250." I went to the State DMV and they showed me the exact paperwork and I bought the boat. I could have bought a 23 foor SeaRay but who wants a stinkpot, anyway?

The real pearl was that the sails were in fantastic shape having been hiding in an excellent sail tube on a galvanized trailer. I bought a new tramp, lots of lines and stays, wheel bearings, and so for an additional $750 I had a great boat I race for 3 years. Sold it for $1200, too!

Next boat, same thing. Supercat 17, bought for $400, restored it, raced it and kicked many a butt, then sold it for $1800.