Hello John,
Ain't looking for an airplane fun? And there just doesn't seem to be a decent airplane in your area. Yep! Been there! Done that!
In looking at the price range you showed willing to pay for. I believe you can lower your sights a wee bit. We purchased 72G with a newly overhauled engine for $17,000. I really would not look to pay more than maybe $23,000 for a stock 150. Maybe a little more for a 152. There are lots of them out there. In the price range you are looking at, I believe you would be better off looking at an older 172. If we already didn't have our 150, that is what I would be doing.
Just my most humble suggestion!
