With the criteria you have, and get a 28 Pantera with a big single in it, and I'm a Formula guy.

Great boat, but I think it would be too much for a guy who's just getting into boating in general, according to his own words.

east coast
 

there are buyers for east coast boats in CA. i had west and i have east. and all have west again and east again. what kind of boating do you want to do?? you have alot of choices.

Simple and easy........buy a Fountain! Best bang for the buck and easy to sell when you want out.:D

I think if your after a fast boat Eliminator is the best bang for the buck. You get great gel coat, a finished interior and they are fast. Plus my 27 seats 6 people like a big v without the need for twins. You do miss out on a cuddy.

This would be my choice of the boats listed so far!
Great running hull and will always be in style!!!

Bang for the buck. I think we all can all agree that a fountain would fit that definition. I would look into a 35 fountain with twin 496's. You can buy a new one for 160 or a couple year old used one for 110.

From Powerboat Mag:
HULL INFORMATION
Deadrise at transom 24 degrees
Centerline 30'
Beam 7'
Hull weight 4,800 pounds


PRICING INFORMATION
Price as tested $76,785


ENGINE & PROPELLER
Engine MerCruiser 496 Mag HO
Propeller Lab-finished Mercury Bravo One 15 1/4" x 28"

Damn!That's a great price for a brand new boat...has to go 75 with a 28p on there...beams a lil narrow...u can get a lot more boat for 75-80k if u buy used though...I'd never buy new,just my .02

Best bang for the buck: Superboat Y2K. Yes, I am bias too, but I was in your same shoes looking two years ago. Bought the SB and could not be happier - I run with the big boys and in stuff they sometimes don't want to run in, all at three times the fuel economy. Still loving it two years in.....