ES 2

I have an opportunity to buy a 1955 ES 2 for $2000. It has been sitting in a garage for 30 - 40 years, the owner died a while back and his wife now wants it gone. A tentative price of $2000 was offered by the two sons who know nothing about it or care.

Mostly rust free
Both fenders are gone
The dual seat needs replacing
Everything else seems to be there
The tank appears to have no dents and in good condition from the photos but could use some paint
The frame is the one just before the featherbed.
I was told it turns over
no idea of the mag's condition
Tires of course are shot.
It is a very good candidate for restoration
Any idea of it's value? I can do 90% of any work required

In such estate sales a "lowball" offer is often accepted. The heirs or executor want to mainly dispose of the "junk" and clean out the garage or barn. Heirs, especially, see any offer as "found" money, and are often desperate to receive it.

Offer $1000 and see what their response is. Heck, you might even steal it for $500.

Slick

Without seeing it, hereabouts $2000 would be considered an absolute bargain,
if there is any possibility that it might even be in runnable condition.
The correct mudguards can be tough to find though.