J/30 Class Association Forums J/30 Forum The Boat, Sails and Equipment What does a newbie have to know before buying a j30?

Hello Everyone,
First off this is a great site!

I have a number of questions before I make the move to buy a J30 (currently in the research stage). Goals are to OD race locally (with 5 others). Plus make my wife and kids very happy with family sailing adventures... I currently race on a J29 (not a great overnighter), and 'had' aspirations of buying a J24 (not gonna float with my spouse - no galley).

So I have searched and searched and searched - the class, yachtworld.com, Kijiji, craigslist, google, etc.

1) Does anyone know about boats "quiety" for sale or are the owners retiring that I should contact?

2) Should a person buy the old cockpit or the new cockpit? Are there distinct advantages to either? Is the new cockpit comfortable to sit over for long beats to windward, etc?

3) Are there major red flags to look out for?

I appreciate any advice that comes my way!

Cheers,
Graeme