Here's a pic GInnie Jo.
I settled on a Bayliner 2858. I'd have bought a different brand if I found one, but they made hundreds of 2858s so most of what you see are them. They are known to excel in efficient use of space and I agree very much with that. I know they don't have the best rep but I can fix stuff and there are some well cared for gems out there. Unfortunately the two that I saw were snapped up the first day listed. I ended up with one a step down but still quite good.
The parameters I was looking for:
Had to be a planning boat. If I'm gonna listen to a motor I want it to be as short as possible. This dictated a smaller boat, which to backpackers and small RVers like us is just fine. Actually this is a luxury with shower, heater, fridge, water heater, pressure water, macerator......
~28', Goldilocks; not too big nor too small, fits my dock just right (30' & under there's no $75 annual fee for border crossings IIRC)
Fly bridge = bigger cabin, with nice big windows you can sit and look all around outside. Also has extra space for stuff & lounging at anchor up top + good viz, vs a Sunbridge
No bow sprit for the anchor so had be older than 1996. It saves a bit on moorage and I seem to recall my old Bayliner 24 got it's sprit caught under a dock or something and it was a kerfuffle. I'm McIvering an anchor caddy/roller with a windlass. Hopefully it will look (and work) ok.
Single engine, (the most common configuration). Less fuel burn. Halves the maintenance and makes it easier with more space in the engine compartment. It will have a kicker plus I bought a ~$100 subscription to Towboat US.......
No wood on the outside so newer than 1993 for the aluminum trim.
Stern transom door; We're too old to crawl over to the swimstep so >1996 & some 1995s. Many older Bayliners had doors put in them by contractors and that is what I have, in a 1994.
Its not the perfect boat but the years I wanted, 1994 or 5, are old After 6 months just I wanted the search to end and this boat was pretty good, (perfect is the enemy of good, right?)
We'll see if I chose right.