Need help choosing my first tin boat!

[JigMig]

Hey everyone! I come here seeking some expert advice from you guys. Just got into fishing last year and really enjoy it. I'm looking to take it a step further this year and getting a small aluminum boat. I'd prefer a 16' one but I have limited space in my garage so 14' seems good enough. I've done research and I'm set on getting a V bottom. Purchasing a new car soon to haul this thing around so I'm on a 2K budget (still in college). I will also plan on slightly modifying whatever I purchase with a small deck.

Here are the two boats I'm interested in:
14' Grumman
https://milwaukee.craigslist.org/boa/5468828896.html
Pros:
-Very well kept
-Original Owner
-Comes with many extras
-High sides all around
Cons:
-Doesn't leave much money leftover to modify and add a personal touch
-Looks heavier ( more stable though maybe?)

14' Alumacraft
https://southbend.craigslist.org/boa/5479592045.html
Pros:
-Priced low(maybe can go lower)
-Read good stuff about this particular model
-Looks lighter ( honestly not sure if this a pro)
-Would have alot more money leftover for mods
-Owner provided pics of interior and appears to be in great condition
Cons:
-Most likely not original owner
-Low sides near transom

Where I plan to fish:
Forest Preserve Lakes (https://fpdcc.com/recreation/boating/)
-Looks like trolling motor ONLY on all of these Preserve lakes
Chicago River
Des Plaines River

I'd like to fish on Lake Michigan but extremely close to shore on VERY calm days. I'm aware that Lake Michigan is very unforgiving so I expect that I won't even be able to fish there with such a small boat and especially with my lack of experience.

My questions for you guys:
Which would you choose for where I plan to fish?
Are these good prices? If not what would you offer?
Can the grumman go on lake michigan near the shore on extremely calm days? What are some pros and cons of either boat you see?

Excited to hear everyone's opinion. Any and all advice is welcome. Meanwhile I will continue to do research. Thanks in advance!

 

[Stumpalump]

Rethink buying an older merc.

 

[lckstckn2smknbrls]

I'm guessing your from Illinois?
What ever boat and trailer you get be sure they have their titles. Without the titles there basically junk in Illinois.

 

[Fishfreek]

Heavier means bigger motor.

16' could still be possible just look into a folding tounge ( an add on to the trailer )

Cheaper and clean means more money for better motor, trolling motor, battery and such.

 

[JigMig]

Thanks for the replies everyone! Yes I'm from Illinois. Chicago area. Owner of the second boat I posted notified me that it has sold unfortunately. BUT this one just popped up.

16' alumacraft lunker ss
https://milwaukee.craigslist.org/boa/5488295713.html

Looks to be in decent shape and cheap. Also doesn't include a motor which allows me to search elsewhere for the perfect one and not be stuck to the one that's included. Is this a good deal?

Yes I'm looking to get the best deal possible so I have money for other necessary stuff.

Rethink buying an older merc.

I'm assuming they are not reliable. Should I stick with an evinrude?

 

[lckstckn2smknbrls]

Looks like a nice boat.
The newer floor is nice as long as they did not use pressure treated wood.

 

[riverbud55]

nothing wrong with a old merc,,, some like chevy and say fords a are crap and some say the same about chevys,,, just stay away from Force and Chryslers cuz they a not that great and the older jap engines cuz parts are hard to get,,,, JMO

 

[Wyatt]

That lunker ss appears to be a pretty nice rig. I just sold a 15' bluefin for a grand with no motor and it wasn't near that nice. But of course different areas of the US have different demands.

 

[JL8Jeff]

If you want to add a deck, you might be better off looking for a mod V instead of a deep V. A deck on a deep V will probably be more unstable/unbalanced. Price wise, you may be better off buying a package with boat, motor and trailer and make sure the owner will demo the motor running properly for you. Try to get the owner to take it out on the water for you so can get a good idea of how the boat handles so you'll know if it's too rough for you or if it tends to lean to much to the side when leaning over to reach into the water (to handle all the fish you are going to catch). I've bought boats without running them in the water and they worked out fine. Most boats I've bought the owner took me for a run. I always offer to demo the boat when I sell and most people bought them after the demo ride.

 

[JigMig]

Looks like the 14' alumacraft is up for sale by the new owner but for $250 more. Probably just wanted to make a quick buck: https://chicago.craigslist.org/nwi/boa/5489970922.html

Also found this really nice 16' one without a motor. Emailed owner waiting for a response:
https://milwaukee.craigslist.org/boa/5489549810.html

I found that these boats sell quick once their for sale. That's why all the ones I post are usually sold by the time any of you guys give me an opinion on it . But anywho the information you guys are giving me is great and I'm learning more and more because of it. Thanks everyone!