I just bought a new boat (Smokercraft). I learned a few things as this was my first big boat purchase.
1. Go as big as you can with the main motor. You want a motor that will move the boat nicely without running wide open. Ya its more money, but worth it.
2. As mentioned, spend the money on a good trolling motor. I laboured over buying a terrova with ipilot, but to me now that I have used it, is as important as anything.
3. Spend some serious time sitting in the boat before you buy. Bring your gear and see how it fits. I love my boat to death, but my rods dont fit in the storage (eyes are too big to slide in.... never thought of that).
Good luck.... excited for you.