Karl, I saw a 44 2 weeks ago looking much like this one, in the water. I see it has 425hp Cats, 1100 hours reported, an excess of power IMO, the fuel use when it tries to plane must be frightening but it should be ok at hull speed. I don`t believe the hull shape varies within sizes, but note an added section at the chines my 36 does not have. Osmosis is usually a feature, was that fixed here or pre import, if here, talk to who did it. The timber transom planking over the f/g has been painted, people get sick of varnishing. What is shown of the teak decking looks better than I`d expect, wonder if it`s been sanded.
It would be useful to compare the 2 listings, certainly the broker should have the history, including importation. Mark Halvorsen told me he first visited the factory in China in 1988, so should know something about boats built in 1990 but as this was sold in the USA unlikely he knows the boat.
The "lemon" suspicion is possible,more likely it was imported to resell for profit. Survey is your best protection there.
I doubt you`ll find a review, but search and see. I can`t think of anyone on TF with a 44. They seem to hang around for sale. Anchorline Brokers in QLD have one listed, they were IG agents, know the boats well, are decent to deal with and might talk your questions through with you. I recall a 44 Europa privately advertised in Sydney a while back at around 200K.