[mshac]

You just need to fly the airplane. Fly it to a destination you're used to, so you can focus on the airplane, and not the surroundings. Make the flight at least an hour, more if possible. Offer to pay for the gas. Pay close attention to the sellers response - does he immediately offer to set a time to go flying, or does he seem unwilling to commit to a flight with you, for reasons. This is the first filter a potential aircraft purchase should be put through. If the owner agrees to fly with you, there's a much better chance that the airplane is NOT going to be a money pit, and you can experience the flight characteristics yourself. Use every system on the airplane, make note of any squawks, do some airwork, make a few landings. At the end of the day, you'll have a much better idea if this is the plane for you or not!

PS - Thoroughly check for oil leaks after the flight. Most sellers will have the plane cleaned of any oil before a buyer comes to look at it.