Thanks, Nick. Yep, a lot of boats out there are beautifully designed and in some cases well-built, but come with a long list of serious projects that need doing on Day 1. Every boat is a compromise, but with a job that is full-time +, that's one compromise I am unprepared to make, which helps explain why I am still looking. I'll probably have to compromise over something else from my list. And I agree that a compact gem of a boat that's ready to drop lines and go is preferable to a rambling, spacious dock / yard queen.
Can't explain why I have so much trouble warming up to the looks of the Camano. Reportedly they are very practical pocket cruisers, and within my reach price-wise, although they all seem to come with Volvo engines.
My order of priorities for a boat are similar to those for a car. Both should be:
1) Safe.
2) Reliable.
3) Efficient.
4) Good-looking.