[Wittmandriver]

A 152 isn't the only trainer out there that is fairly inexpensive. I have seen some Grumman Yankees that are IFR certified. They can be a little more economical if all AD's are complied with.

To make this cost effective, get in good with a good A&P. When you find a plane, have that A&P do a pre-purchase inspection. If you find the A&P that has worked on that particular plane...bonus! Annuals are way cheaper that way because the mechanic knows the plane. In California, tie-downs I have seen go $30-$70 a month. Hangars are much more. This is all depending on location.

Here is how I figure the cost of my plane. I am my own mechanic (homebuilt and I am an A&P) so I don't pay labor which makes it affordable. I have no AD's, but I do comply with engine/accessory AD's voluntarily. Insurance is $1100 a year. Fuel I figure $5 a gallon-it'll be there soon if it isn't already. Oil is $3.86 a qt here. Filters are $17. Oil changes are every 50 hours. Plugs are $15 a piece-you will have 8 that will be changed around 400 hours depending on type. My hangar is $42 a month here in Iowa, but that is about to change when I move to CA. Maintenance down the road goes something like this-a complete overhaul I figure $15k. A cylinder jug is around $950 outright. You can look at any part in Trade-A-Plane to figure out your cost down the road. Then you have to factor in labor...

Buying a plane, in my opinion, for training is not an overly cost effective option, unless you know what you are doing. Do not use it to train someone else, because then you become an FBO/flying club and insurance becomes a factor, or don't get caught. I say don't risk it. I had a flight instructor once that wanted to buy a Cub and teach tailwheel-until that insurance quote got back to him-$9k a year.

Beware of anything over 1000SMOH. You do not know how that plane has been run. I have seen jugs have to be replaced by then. A good A&P will be able to help you out, though.

Good luck,

Wittmandriver