I'd add to what Mike said in this way - there are amazing deals to be had out there right now. If you are looking to buy the latest, newest thing out there, be prepared to pay a premium - somewhere between $14k and $16k for a new boat. On the other hand, if you're looking to get a strong intro to the class, spin up to speed and take advantage of falling prices among current owners that are near the top of the fleet and committed to picking up a new boat before Nationals in October, you can find really sound two-year-old boats with good race sails and up-to-date rigging for less than half the cost of a new Tiger, Cap or Infusion.

That said... I bought new. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />

Happy shopping!