All valid points, thanks. Most of the people I've known in my lifetime that have had reef aquariums have given them up eventually for a variety of reasons - downsizing, cost, time, over it, etc.
I've done some pricing, and am well aware of not only the astronomical start-up costs, but also the on-going maintenance. This is mostly the reason I've only researched and not dived in. I've considered a freshwater tank, but that doesn't pique my interest like the marine aquaria do.
I guess that's my biggest hurdle. I don't really know where to start, and I don't want to end up spending money on something I don't need, or in the end, don't really want.