Who knows about Beneteau First 30s?

[JMRmarinero]

Greetings!
Not too long ago I posted about a shannon28, got some great response, but the boat was too much of a project. Currently, I located a Beneteau First 30 (1984) in Puerto Rico, which I'd have to sail back to STThomas. broker's ad said needed TLC, which after talking to him, he says refers ro cosmetic stuff, assures me the boat is tight and seaworhty enough to sail to weather between there and here (of course, when I look at the boat I'll know the truth of the matter) The volvo was rebuilt 7 yrs ago, the owner has been sailing it up until the last 6 months, is in a divorce and leaving the island. I've heard about the shallow bilge, and I'm familiar with the iron keel being a bitch to keep clean(I used to clean boat bottoms for a living in HI) , what special areas of concern should I check, as I'm planning to live aboard, go inter-island cruising, and maybe a few races too. I'd also checked a c&c 27, but it didn't grab me. Also thinking of looking at a Cheoy Lee 30 and an O'Day 30 that are for sale in the area, but the Beneteau's deck layout and performance qualities are what appeal to me, having sailed and raced for over 30 years.

Any feedback, stories, warnings would all be appreiciated.

Jose