Congrats on retiring. I'm still trying to figure out how to do that.
I have an Econoline 250, tows my 25 Seafari just fine. I think the tow rating is slightly below the actual weight of the package when I'm heavy loaded going on long trips, but it doesn't seem to be any problem. Just change your transmission fluid more often than reccommended.
What to buy, a turn key, major project, or something in between? A hard question and one that depends entirely on your preferences and skills. If you actually enjoy working on the boat and have decent skills, a major project makes sense (not financial sense, just sense). If you want to go fishing now, a recent turn key done by a professional well known for doing outstanding work or one the the fanatics on this site, will be a great deal, financially and time wise. Anything else, figure the boat will need a lot more than you bargained for(or priced into the purchase), and just do what is necessary. This can be a good deal or can be a nightmare, depending on what you buy. In my case, the boat was perfect for my application, had a fresh engine and no apparent problems, but a couple of years in I still had to spend 6 months replacing rotten bulkheads, broken stringers, etc. Worth every minute, but I sure hope I don't have to do it again.
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