I am looking to buy a Westsail or Fairweather Mariner 39. Preferably on the Pacific coast. 

Thanks for that. Looks like a bit more of project than I was hoping for.

You articulate the conundrum I feel. Having done that once with a great Jason 35, I could easily buy a good old boat for $25k and spend more than $55k in refit and refurbish. That's why King's Pride was such a steal at $82K fully refit, once in a lifetime opportunity.

What's your take on the condition and needs of the boat in San Diego? It seems that boats always look better online than in reality crawling around on them. I am in Hawaii, and can't easily bop over there for a look-see.

I hear you Randall , we want to sail not work on it . My take on that 39 at just a quick look is that it needs a good cleaning plus varnish .Some interior work (lots?) Anyhow that boat has some nice gear on it . Very tempting at 24,999 , I think . But I'm quick to jump on a deal and it always comes back to get me .