Need help about buying...

[jmr014]

I am about to go look at a Nikon D80 that I found in a classified ad yesterday. The camera is only a year old and he says that it is in perfect condition. I wanted to know if there is anything that I should pay special attention to (to make sure that nothing is wrong with the camera). Besides taking a few pictures and checking to make sure they look accurate, is there anything I should be cautious of. I have never bought a used camera before and want to make sure that I am not getting ripped off.

Also, the sale is just for a camera D80 body only, with grip, for $700. I imagine this is reasonable since the camera is around $900 new. Would you consider purchasing if you were in my position, or hold off and wait until a "black friday" sale?

Thanks for all of your input.

 

[Meysha]

Are you talking US $'s?

It's not my money, but that seems a bit expensive for me for a camera that is already 1 year old. You're only getting 20% off the new price.

If you're going to get it, check to see how many photos it's taken, and have a good look at the sensor. Ask if they've cleaned the sensor themselves. and check all the buttons work... my canon 350D is getting a bit sticky on some of the buttons - but it's about 2 years old now.

 

[jmr014]

I am hesitant because of the price too. I have asked if he can go any lower, and plan on inquiring further if it gets into the 600's. Is there a specific place in the menus that will tell me the number of shots the camera has taken? Also, what should I look for on the sensor? Thanks for all of the help.

 

[Puma]

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Yeah, I was wondering how you can tell how many pics a camera has taken?

-Puma-

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[jmr014]

Ok, so I talked to the guy with the camera. He has offered to drop it to $650 without the battery grip. I never planned on getting the grip and will be carrying the camera with me a lot, so I do not think I will need it. I rather spend the extra money on a good lens. He says that the camera has under 2500 clicks. Is this a good price for the camera even though it doesnt have the warranty. He says he bought it from B&H brand new last year, and the warranty just expired at the end of last month. Is there anything to look for when I meet him face-to-face. I've never bought a used DSLR before and want to make sure I am not getting ripped off. Also, how can I prove that the camera has the # of clicks that he says. Any info is greatly appreciated. Thanks again everyone