Hi Richard,
Let me be the first to welcome you aboard! If you've read most of the posts, you know these are difficult questions, with no definitive answers. The clubs database of model comparisons might help your decision making. You are the best judge of what you want and need.
I agree with your reasoning, though. Yes, include 150's in your search. There's not enough difference in performance to be a factor. 150's are a little less expensive to buy than 152's, and operational costs are very similar. I suggest buying a 150/152 for yourself, and renting a 172 for the family trips. You'll pay for a lot of trips in the 172 with the money you saved buying the 150/152. Take your BFR in the 172 and you're good to go! A 150hp 150 is a blast to fly if you can find one, is faster, has higher gross, and can still save you money over the 172. Wheel pants are basically cosmetic, although some members find adding brake fairings makes a difference. Flap gap covers are the better speed mod. 150's with O-200A's and stock cylinders had an AD that backed the timing off to 24btdc, which lowered the hp. Look for a Major or Top Overhaul that installed new cylinders allowing the timing to legally be reset back to 28btdc, bringing the hp back up. Also, make sure the old non-rebuildable mags have been replaced. Keep shopping, and you'll get a good idea of real market values, keeping in mind that asking price isn't usually selling price! Specific questions will arise as you shop. Post them here, and you'll get an answer. Just type in "Cessna 150 152 172" in your search engine, and you'll be shopping/learning for hours.
Carl
