GL Check the condition of the hull, the mirage fins, the skeg and the rudder. Look for bent rods on the mirage fins. Look for cracks in the hull around the mirage drive port. Check to see how easily the mirage drive locks in. Check to see that the mirage drive receivers are tight and look for debris inside the receivers.
Check the hull for deformation. If you see a lot of hull deformation, it tells you the boat wasn't stored in the recommended way.
Check the vantage seat, especially the hand cushions. The cables that adjust the seat can occasionally wind up on the hand cushions and tear the cushions.
All of these things (except cracks in the hull) can just be a function of lots of use and don't necessarily mean it's a bad buy but should influence what a good deal on price is. If you see a lot of deep gouges in the hull, lots of gouges or tears in the mirage drive fins (or skeg/rudder) you'll know the boat was well used.
You did not mention a price, most of this stuff only matters as an influencer on price.
Finally, Hobie has a real warranty program, which you can verify by spending some time on this forum, so if there is a manufacturer's defect, you'll find Hobie will respond even if you are not the original owner.
Good Luck
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