It really depends on the year. The last few weeks some BSV's have gone up for sale and were in contract within hours. Others have been sitting for sale a long time due to lack of use. Anything past model year 73 is sought after. Anything after 79 is guaranteed to sell. Anything with the IO550 is rare.
My plane is a rarity because in 1999 there was a gear collapse during taxi. The factory built new wings with all the modern design features and did an complete overhaul of the engine, upgraded cowlings, modern beefed up landing gear, new interior, new gami injectors. So the only original components are the steel frame, some instruments, and the engine. The result was an added 10kts cruise. When the plane went up for sale, I was the first respondent of six and they were all willing to buy on the spot. I ws lucky because I live in the same town and the guy I bought it from could keep tabs on her. He really retired from flying in a begrudging manner. Health problems.
I believe the one you almost bought, with all the rot, was purchased at a deep discount from a guy I know on the viking forums. It took a few months to repair but in the end he has a beautiful plane. The wings were refurbed at the factory and the plane reskinned.
I have to tell you, the community of viking pilots are quite eclectic and I really fit in with the group. And man, do they have a sense of humor. We have a fly-in near my home in early June. I hope to make it but Sunday night my car was rear ended on the freeway so... I'm sort of out of commission.
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