It sounds like a great deal, but check the wires on the motor for dryrot, a 1979 is a fairly old motor. The insulation on the wires could crack and peel off leaving you with alot of work and some pretty heavey exspences. The boat itself looks to be in good shape and the easy load trailer so it is probably worth the money. 115 horse engine might be a little big for you being that it is your first boat though. Either way good luck to you..