Checklist for Buying HomeBuilt Aircraft

When was the aircraft built?
Has the test phase been completed?
What is the total time on the airframe?
What is the total time for engine and prop?
What is the TBO (time between overhauls) for both engine and prop?
Who built aircraft?
How many of this design have been built and are flying?
Will the builder sign off the annual condition inspection?
Have you line up an A&P mechanic to perform the condition inspection
 if the builder can't or won't?
Is there still support from the designer (manufacturer) or plans seller?
How many owners did this plane or project have before it was finished?
How many owners has it had since it first flew?
What designer options did the builder install?
What improvements or alterations has the builder made to the designer plans
 or kit?
Does the sale include a construction manual, pictures, and plans?
What avionics and electronics are installed?
Are all avionics and electronics functional?
Are there any weight and balance differences between this aircraft and the
 designers prototype?
Have all the designers directives and FAA Airworthiness Directives been
 complied with?
Is the airworthiness certificate current and valid?
What are the operations and limitations specifications?
When was the aircraft last flown?
Who performed any previous overhauls, what was their level of training/
certification, and what was repaired and/or replaced?
When was the last annual inspection conducted?
Who performed the last annual, what was their level of trianing/certification,
 and what maintenance was required?
Who performed the maintenance required by the last annual? What was 
their level of training/certification?
Has the aircraft ever been in an accident? (If yes, get the details.)
Has the aircraft ever been rebuilt? (If yes, why?)
Does the cockpit fit you comfortably?
Is the cockpit adequately heated? Ventilation?
Can you ensure this aircraft?
Is the seller a member of EAA, USUA,ASC?
Does this aircraft fit the type of flying that you plan to do?
Why is the owner selling?  
  Is there a lien on the plane? Title?
  Will the owner deliver the plane to your location?
  Where will you store your newly acquired plane? Do you have a hanger?
  If you are buying a local aircraft, can you arrange to rent the seller's hanger?
Do you have an instructor lined up and willing to check you out in your newly
 acquired airplane?

Additional Comments:
Take off the inspection plates. Look in the nooks and crannies. Pay attention 
to leaks, oily areas, water stains, and any paint patches. Look for corrosion
and cracks. Do perform a compression test on the engine. Look at the condition
of the spark plugs. Check the condition of the hoses. Jack up the wheels and 
check the brake pads and wheel bearings. Check controls for play and roughness.
Don't use the seller or sellers mechanic ( unless you know the individual personally
or by reputation) Use your own mechanic to perform this inspection and pass 
judgment before making that BIG commitment of an offer.

Finally, if the seller won't let you use your own mechanic--RUN AWAY!