Wise words from pilot-DAR, I reckon. I would add that if buying anything worth real money (5 figures or more) I would also change the oil and send off a sample for analysis (assuming the owner hasn't changed it already a few hours beforehand). It's about £20 and so long as the oil sample is at least 20 hours old, it will speak a lot about the engine condition.
Engine borescope too, without question.
I bought my own 5 years ago and while it has been an absolute huge hassle, pushing rocks up mountains on so many fronts, warranty issues, dealer "customer service" issues, you name it, I have not regretted it for a moment. You get a plane you want, maintained to your standard, with exclusive access, and you know nobody else has bent it and kept quiet.
Ownership is not a dirt cheap option, but then flying is not a dirt cheap hobby.