meh, I disagree. I can't recall having read a post telling someone to dry tobacco just for some sort of drying ritual. Brand, cut, etc. are the factors involved when deciding to dry and for how long. You weigh the factors and do your best to dry it to your liking.
If you haven't purchased it why not ask for more information, pictures, history? If they don't answer or don't answer with the proper responses, that would be a flag for me.
I posted my 3 meers in the other thread, two of which are Imps and the other the first one I bought so it stays. I will only buy Imps's in the future. Best maker for me and not close. I have tried and sold at least a dozen other makers.
Local repair might be difficult depending on where you live. Mailing pipes to repairs shops is pretty standard fare now, I like Briarworks myself but lots of others out there.
Some of us wait a year for a pipe to be refurbished......