urb -- it sounds like I'm in a similar situation. I had a look at the invision board and seems ok. I also found a site where you can get skins and mods :
http://www.ibplanet.com/ . Problem is, unless you pay appx 70 bucks, you have the free trial download at the bottom. Judging by the reputation of vbulletin, it still might be worth the extra expense judging by alternatives. Only 15 bucks more.
p.s I know you're busy, but maybe you can help me with something (logo and top graphics over board). I'll email you asap with the details. I just need to get a little submitting done.
kris