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I've just gone down a similar route. Look for a 2013 (late 2013, preferably) - 2015 machine; basically the same shells with marginal gains in processor and SSD read/write speeds. I went for a top-of-the-line late 2013 15" (i7 2.6ghz with 16GB RAM and a 1TB SSD, dual graphics) for £800, which I think is a good price for the spec and a very clean machine with ~250 charge cycles.
Arrived yesterday, typing this on it. All seems well but I'm going to take the back off tomorrow and check for liquid ingress (there are indicators inside the case).
2014 models (I think) had some issues with the screen delaminating. 2015 gets you the force trackpad and maybe some other stuff I'm not aware of.
I almost went for a late 2013 13" i7 with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD - sold for a shade under £600, so there are bargains to be had compared to new prices.
Usual stuff applies: watch some sales to get a view of prices; converse with seller in advance if possible; check feedback; get screenshots of spec, battery condition and diagnostics saying that everything's a-okay (as much as it can ever be when buying remotely).
Buying from Hoxton Macs or another refurbisher is an option - but you will pay quite a premium for the peace of mind. Good luck!
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Timmy2wheels
@miro_o
I’m getting zero screen activity on startup with my 2010 21.5” iMac.
If it’s toast I’ll be after a used 13” MacBook Pro. It’s for Creative Suite use and a bit of office stuff, no gaming.
Is there a standout 13” year or model? Pitfalls to avoid? I’ve actually never owned a laptop before.
I’m hoping £600 will buy something around 4 years old.