The Bayfields count the bowsprit into their length, so a Bayfield 25 is comparable to a typical 23 as far as LWL, cockpit, deck and cabin space is concerned. Likewise, the Bayfield 29 is more like a 27. That may be why the prices seem lower. When compared to a boat of equivalent LWL, the Bayfields costs are usually the same or higher.
It's said that we are attracted to people for their qualities but we love them for their faults. The same may be true for our boats and you'll find that most owners will rate their boats 8/10 or higher (mine is a 9). More objective opinions may come from someone who owned one in the past but not presently.
Some reviews here:
http://sailquest.com/market/models/bayf25.htm
http://sailquest.com/market/models/bayf29.htm
http://www.cymagazine.ca/onlineExclu...usiveKeyword=6
Where's the blue water in Wisconsin?