Originally Posted by
helispotter
I am puzzled. If a prospective owner of a HX50 isn't inclined to put 51% effort into the build, can't they just arrange for someone else so do so on their behalf? That would be no different to an E/AB aircraft being built by an original owner and then being sold to a new owner some time afterwards.
It's the "on their behalf" that is problematic and not allowed under FAA rules. You could legally fund someone to be the original owner and builder and then buy it from them. They would be the builder of record and you, not being the builder, could not qualify for a repairman certificate. (The repairman certificate authorizes the original builder to conduct condition inspections).