Whats the pros/cons of buying an established tank vs start from scratch?

[returnedreefer]

I am returning to the hobby after a hiatus without a tank and debating where to start. Part of me wants to start completely from scratch and build from the ground up. Another part of me sees well established tanks for sale for really good prices which are very enticing. (When I say really good prices I mean 55gal with 10 gal sump, 2 250kW MH, skimmer, 150lbs LR, 100lbs LS, 30 + species of coral SPS, LPS, and softies, and all the other fixings such as stand pumps etc for $750). Here in lies the dilemma as that seems like one heck of a deal but also takes away from the satisfaction of building up as I thought it would be a good experience to share with my young children... Any thoughts on the subject?
Thanks in Advance!

 

[novahobbies]

Well....my vote is building. You can also find great deals on empty setups on Clist all the time, which will save you some money there. If you have kids, I agree that building the tank over time is a very good experience, and can help in teaching patience as well. IMO it's more satisfying to watch a tank grow and mature, but that's just me.

 

[sweatervest13]

Quote:
Originally Posted by novahobbies http:///t/392557/whats-the-pros-cons-of-buying-an-established-tank-vs-start-from-scratch#post_3486566
Well....my vote is building. You can also find great deals on empty setups on Clist all the time, which will save you some money there. If you have kids, I agree that building the tank over time is a very good experience, and can help in teaching patience as well. IMO it's more satisfying to watch a tank grow and mature, but that's just me.
+1
Find the deal for an empty tank on CL... You will get a lot of enjoyment from the build (at least I do!!). I have two young kids and building my tank was truly a family event (an event where I do all the work...LOL). Plus you don't know what issues the guy who is selling the established set up has. There may be issues that you don't want to fix. OR he went with a theme that you want no part of.
One other thing to consider... I feel that buying an established tank and setting it up as your own is kinda cheating... Not really, but I could not stare at a tank for hours at a time with 100% satisfaction knowing that I did not do the hard work to get this. That's just me though... Please don't be offended if you do go that route.

 

[returnedreefer]

Thanks for the great advice and no offense taken! I was leaning the build way anyways but like everything else was looking for a little positive reinforcement! I have already been looking for deals on CL and it looks like there are some pretty good ones out there! Are there any real concerns to look for on tanks other then holding water, scratches, etc. I found a 90 gal drilled (I would have to add the baffles for overflow) for $90 which looked to be a great deal. I would have to build a stand but dont see that being a big hindrance. I am just curious if there are any distinct things to look for as most any used Reef tank is going to be a little "nasty" (in a good way with coralline)
Thanks Again!