if you're patient you could find a genuine type r for around 16-18k ...
Otherwise if interested.... the usual list:

1.revs check....accident..stolen ??
2. Full car inspection by reputable workshop.. (i recommend RAC master check as they check every single thing on the car.. even remove the wheels to measure the brake pads and thread tyre reading..) INSIST ON COMPRESSION TESTING THE ENGINE
3. Use what you found in the above list to bargain... i reckon that car is worth around 11k (personal opinion) nvm what he says about the car being rare and shit cos all the $$ he spent is'nt going to come back anyway...
4. Look into whether the car had factory SRS steering wheel to begin with.. (Vtirs had them) its gonna cost u fair bit to get one.. 200+ for a decent one...and more to fit it properly...

Hopes this helps...