Taking SCARY out of used bikes, one bike at a time.
Headsets and Bottom Brackets are not so easy to inspect when buying used bikes. You can go by feel and if there is a crunching or vibration that may be an issue inside.
In this case, the fork was smooth but as you can see it could use a cleaning with new contact grease.
Keep in mind that just labor at a shop is $15-$35 just to open it up and clean/grease. Parts cost you anywhere from $15-$100 depending on quality and availability.