My advice,
Make a budget, double it twice
Research, research and research.
research some more.
Seriously, I bet everyone on here who has had a tank more then 18 months has made at least one mistake they regret be it a purchase, placement or setup decision.
If you are handy and patient you can find used gear and make Do it Yourself projects to save money, but be aware DIY can end up costing more, especially if you don't get it right the first time.
If I were in your shoes, I would go to a few meets and visit any reefers who will invite you in to see not only their displays, but more importantly the equipment behind it.
Finally, DO NOT start a reef without a tank that is drilled first. Overflow boxes can work great 99.99% of the time, but you would be amazed at how much of a disaster that other 0.01% can be. I setup a non drilled tank just over 6 years ago and I have regretted it ever since. I will be emptying the tank to drill it this summer and I expect it will take me about 50 times longer then had I done it right 6 years ago!
Oh yeah, and WELCOME!
m-fine
P.s. Stop by the explain your screen name thread
