Only problem with these older Canadian cruiser-racers is the bloody balsa-cored decks. They sail superbly, but if the core gets wet and then is subjected to a freeze-thaw cycle, it's delamination city.
Pick yourself a model that at the very least has a fully solid FG hull. Then you'll just be recoring the deck for the rest of your life!
EDIT: I forgot to mention that 1970s Pearsons are pretty nice boats currently going cheaply, too. Being down East, you'll get a greater range of New England classic plastics from which to choose.
Here: I found you a nice 35-footer. Totally representative of a 1970s cruiser-racer:
http://www.yachtworld.com/boats/1601614/0