I've got my eye on a pair of red socks down the local market. I'm not sure if they're the right shade though. Should I buy them?
Welcome to the forum, Fred. Unfortunately your kind of question is only going to get smart-ass replies unless you can provide a lot more detail to your query. What is the price/age? Where is your friend sailing? What else is he looking at...and so on.
I have a similar 331. For the benefit of shallow draft and ability to dry on sand etc. Much saving on marina fees. You have the cost of lift keel maintenance and a reduced windward performance. Also she's more tender than a fixed keel.
I'm not sure, but I have an idea these boats have twin rudders and if so, your friend might find manoeuvring in confined spaces challenging, especially if it is his first boat as you say.