Equipment Review and Discussion :: Is this a good deal

[Blue Flamingo]

55 gallon used tank for 70 bucks. I think it comes with a heater. I'm not sure if its worth the long drive that I'll have to make to go get it. I live in Evans and Its in Golden thats about 65-70miles away from were I live. What do you think? Is it worth it?

[adam85491]

If it were me it would probably be a good deal since prices near me are kind of outrageous but in many places you can get a complete starter kit for $150 new. It is kind of a far drive but isn't a bad deal.

[steve]

Tough to say... could you haggle it down a bit? Let them keep the heater ?

[Blue Flamingo]

lOl Ya, thats what I'm trying to do over e-mail. I can't haggle in person I just give people my money. I dont have the haggle gene . It also comes with some other junk that I dont really need, but you have to take everything.

[adam85491]

For buying tanks...specifically new, I have a tough time because the stores always sell them with hoods. I was only able to get my 20 gallon long tank for a decent price because it didn't come with a hood (which I would not use anyway). If this comes with a hood that you plan on getting it's not a bad deal.

[megcornell]

That's not too long of a roadtrip, and worst case you won't use the other stuff. $70 doesn't sound too bad- the only better deal I usually hear about is when tanks go on sale for $1 a gallon, but your price isn't too bad. A 55 gallon is a decent size tank for a while, I'd just make sure you see it filled up to make sure there aren't any leaks.

[adam85491]

It isn't a lot until you add on the prices of a filter, heater, and other things...unless you already have those items....

[Blue Flamingo]

(Satisfied Grin) I talked him down to 50 bucks. My first attempt to haggle in life was a success . Yep I’m definitely going to go get it now. Thanks for all the advice.

[octpusgirl8]

Wow good job! Maybe there's hope for me too, i'm the same way when it comes to bargaining.

[industrial_girl_2000]

55 gallon used tank for 70 bucks. I think it comes with a heater. I'm not sure if its worth the long drive that I'll have to make to go get it. I live in Evans and Its in Golden thats about 65-70miles away from were I live. What do you think? Is it worth it?

My questions would be:
How long have they been using it?
How often has it been moved?
What kind of stand was it sitting on?
What kind of animals were being housed in it?
Why are they getting rid of it?
If there is a stand, can you also purchase the stand as well?
Has it ever been repaired for leaks?
Was that person the only owner of the tank?
Did they buy it from a store?

Reason why I ask is because 55 gal is the size of tank where the tanks are not supposed to be moved all that often & should be supported underneath with a good, solid aquarium stand. So I don't ask the questions to be nosy or to be a jerk, but just to make sure you can ask & know what you are getting. $70 wouldn't be worth it if you have to toss it in 6 months due to leakage & then have to go spend $150 for a new one anyway.

[Blue Flamingo]

Okay those are good questions to ask. I believe he had fish in it, I'm not sure of the other answers to the other questions. If it does end up having a leak cant you just seal it up with aquarium silicon?? If its not repairable I think I'll just sell it, as a reptile tank only cause of the leak and hopefully make my money back.