Most people we know who have gone this route, in retrospect, felt it would have been cheaper to purchase a production or used boat. Getting professional help is wise. Hire or get someone to help determine what sailboat would meet your individual requirements. Boat brokers can be helpful if they are truly knowledgeable. Many are not.
Brokers understandably have conflicts of interest and their advice is often slanted.
Talk with people who have been recently out cruising. Most are happy to share information. Decide on a general size and type of boat based on the type of cruising you will be doing. Establish priorities such as safety, speed, living space, ventilation, storage and ease of handling. Avoid traditional boats with long overhangs or overly heavy displacements.