Talkdownman,
It's all about what the prospective owner wants to achieve. He currently has a PPL with MEP and a number of hours using light aircraft. There are two considerations. Firstly he wants to be able to fly the aircraft himself legally and competently, however he is aware that he currently has little experience in both the aircraft and the type of flying he will be looking to do. Secondly he would like to have his family and friends as passengers. Some of those, especially his wife, would like to have a qualified, experienced 'safety pilot' there in case any medical issue were to arise. He is 65 and I would agree this is prudent.