RE: $500 for an apache
"A decent radio set up will set u back at least $300"
I think a top of the line radio setup and servos will set you back $300. An adequate radio is certainly less.
$500 for a good usable well setup used boat is not a bad price. But $500 for someone elses problems is a bit much. If you consider a brand new 50" hull will set you back $300 unpainted it puts things into a good price perspective.