Looking at purchasing a 2000 KJ Verada any ideas of issues that should be looked for in detail...

If possible get a Series 2, ie. a late 2001 build as they come with a 5speed tip tronic tranny instead of the 4spd tippy and also has 155kw as opposed to 150kw. :)

yep.. look for possible oil leaks from cam seals and engine sump.. also look out for :

*rattle from engine pipe on acceleration, worse cold
*rear screen mould paint peeling
*scraping noise from rear wheels when driving at low speeds ( handbrake shoes )
*flare in transmission through gears
*long rubber weatherstrips dropping.. rear doors
*check to see if all recalls have been carried out.. ring mitsu with the VIN to verify

those are some common faults.. but of course, check for body/panel repairs and so on!