31 year old, and my lass as a driver with licence less than 3 year old, and im paying less than 500.
1500 should get you a half decent golf, they've really dropped in value recently (typically, just after id bought one)
checking tailgate wash hasnt been leaking, check the boot lock with the key to see if it works as usually this buggers up, and check that the dash says boot is open so you know switch works
check to see interior lights come on when doors are opened, if they dont its the lock mechanism and they cost about 70 quid each
serviced with correct oil, essential on any car, especially with a turbo.
sure theres more but minds a bit blank right now