It looks shorter than 36" between centers, but longer than 28", I would guess the owner is correct. I prefer 36", but 31-32" will work fine( 28" will usually do well). Who ever said LeBlond made a good lathe was absolutely correct. I would "jump" on the deal, but get everything you can, "dodad" wise, in the deal, especially steady rest, taper tang drills, indicators, centers, Collets, Tool holders, extra chucks( with all jaws). It doesn't take too much extra stuff to make an $1,100 lathe free.
Mike