One problem with being new at the science
is knowing what to expect. What should I see in a telescope? How much
difference will a better eyepiece make? What SHOULD I be able to see on
Mars? How well should this scope track? And a million more....

This is the reason why the standard response to "What telescope should I
buy?"/"Is the XXXX a good telescope?" is to recommend taking the time to visit
a star party or club outing so that a new observer can have realistic
expectations of what is possible and make an informed decision.

Someone needs to write a book on this!

I think it has been done if I am not mistaken, (Starware?) but nothing beats a
few nights looking through the eyepiece and discussing various issues with the
owner...

jon