Great questions:
Are you looking for the ability to direct grill, or just low and slow? Most of my cooking is low and slow, but would be nice to do the whole cook on the pellet girl instead of firing up the gaser to sear a steak.
What was it that you liked about your current pit that you want to retain? Really just the price, I got the GMG for free, CL find.
What did you dislike that you want to change? I would like a pit that imparts more a smoke flavor on the food, one that I can grill with if need, one that can hold more pellets, one with tighter temp control across the gril.
What features do you need in a controller (i.e., meat probes or remote control)? WiFi would be nice to have, but not a necessity. I have all sorts of meet probes I can use if needed.
How many people will you normally cook for? Typically just the family and for immediate family and friends for bday parties, holidays, etc...
What is the largest number of people you would need to cook for? Probably 20-30.
Do you have another grill that you will be keeping as overflow? I would like to get rid of the GMG, i have a Webber gasser and SRG I will keep
How important is it to you for it to be made in U.S.A? Would be nice, but doesn't have to be.
Do you want to buy from a dealer or direct from manufacturer? I am thinking direct, but either is okay.
Do you need an insulated pit? I don't think, so live in PNW, so doesn't get too cold normally.
Do you need to be able to move the pit once you have it (take to comps, etc.)? Woudl be nice to take to family's houses to cook, but not a necessity.
Does the size of the hopper matter? Woudl be nice to have a hopper I can load up for a long cook and not worry about checking it.
Are you concerned about rusting (stainless steel)? stainless steel definitely preferred, the GMG is starting to rust.
Have you been able to physically see or eat food from any of the pits you are considering? No, unfortunately i have not
What is your preferred upper cost limit? $1,000
What is the absolute upper cost limit? $1,500