M030 refers to the Porsche part number for the optional "sports suspension".. which in the US gives you stiffer springs and maybe larger sway bars(?). The US spec M030 does NOT lower the car. The euro, or ROW, M030 does include lowering springs.
Do an internet search for the terms
1) RMS (rear main seal)
2) IMS (intermediate shaft)
3) D-Chunking
Then check out a place like flatsix innovations and LN engineering. I think wayne (owner of pelican) has a similar "fix" as the LN component.
Bottom line is that there are issues with ALL M96 (again, porsche internal code) based motors. This includes 986 and 987s (boxsters and caymans) and 996 and 997s (911s - except for the Twin Turbo and GT3 motors)
There were improvements with the 2002 year 3.6 motors.. and again in 2006 on the 997 motors.
Is $1,000 really a big deal if its the car you "really really want"? I'd want some specs on the replacement motor and any warranty that comes with it. IIRC, most 3.4 996 replacement motors will cost you $10-15k out the door.
Tiptronic? well, that's personal choice. I see times when it may make sense and I see more times when it doesn't
Keep doing your research and learn about the option codes and items you may or may not want. No point "rushing" the decision.