With mowers I normally pull the cord & check for compression, check the shaft, check the gas, check the plug, first start is with the air cleaner off to check the choke. Haven't really found many the won't fire up without much trouble.
Weedeaters are more work usually, I check compression, check the shaft, check the fuel lines, check that the muffler screen isn't plugged up, clean the plug, and normally end up taking apart & spraying out the carb. 90% either use too rich of a mix or leave the gas set in them, the muffler is either plugged or the screen in the carb needs cleaned.
Most people don't want to fix anything, or lack the skills and time to do so. Those that can are looking to re-sell normally and looking for the highest profit. Your low-ball offers are most likely coming from other scrappers.
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