Buford, welcome to the forum. Glad you are looking for a Smoker. There are lots of things you would (cost prohibited) want , check out the Signatures on the bottom of a lot of the Member's post.
I for one would want a solid Smoker , decent heavier Smokers can be over $400. You can get a Horizon for about $600. at the Bass Pro shops, and they would last till you pass them on in your Will (if you take care with them).
The Mods. are not necessary if you don't want them and learn your Smoker without them , however efficiency is your goal.
Look for grill space , design ( do you want a big one or want a wood burner ,Elec. Gas , etc.) and definitely get some good Thermometers . Then set about learning your Smoker ; how it heats , the hot spots , quality of your Cooks ( comes with practice) and ease of operation.(ex. - see my profile pics).
Most of all, have fun and as always . . .