I would suggest that you just go start looking at boats that brokers have. Check everything out, there is no perfect boat, but you may find something that appeals to you more than others. Then start researching the ones you like. Don't stretch your budget, buy under and leave room for improvement. Catalina 30 tall
rig with shoal draft is good for your area, but not as good for a trip to the Bahamas. With price range, you can get a really good one and have money left over to put all the bells and whistles on it later if you like it enough to keep it. There are lots available because there were lots built, very popular. IIRC they are still the most produced boat out there.