Welcome and have lots of fun. Firstly, if you're disagreeing about anything, regroup and reconsider your needs.
Most vital is to have a vehicle which will tow the van you choose to live in. Not the other way around. If you're going to live in a van full time, space and comfort are your priorities, and an awning or annexe is essential for shade, shelter, socialising and storage.
Unless you're paranoid about washing in public laundries in parks and towns, a machine takes up a lot of usable storage space in the van. Many hand wash as the clothes don't get filthy, just sweaty and worn.
Storage space is a priority. Once again, depending on personal choice, a shower and toilet can be very handy, especially at night or if the park is packed.
I find an island bed much more user-friendly for 2 people. Couches waste valuable storage space. If you want to lie down use the bed or go out in the annexe on your favourite camp reclining chair.
There is a huge storage space under the bed in most vans, the boot holds hardware, and some vans have a locker under the front across the full width of the van. Flashest, most expensive is not always the most suitable. It's a matter of need vs want. Decor can be changed so if you find a van with your preferred layout the curtains and bed spread can be changed.
Rear door and kitchen is my fave layout. My current van has L shaped lounge by table mid-van. I prefer cafe' style dining, but it's not a biggy.
I'm a solo nomad, towing my 10 year old 20 foot Roma with a land cruiser. I live where I'm parked and don't have a "base" home. So storage and minimalism is a priority. I could make space for a "travel partner" if the need arose. (Read profile).
These are the things I look for in a rig, and I'm a very practical, no frills person.
I'm sure you will get more advice than you actually asked for, so choose what you want and leave the rest. What suits one will not suit the other.
Just have fun doing it. Watch others. Stay a weekend in a van park in a cabin and go around and have a look at how others do it. Caravan shows are not the best place to decide, only to look at all the options available. A salesman doesn't know what you need.
Keep us posted, and never be afraid to ask questions. We all do what suits us best.
Safe and happy travels and stay upright. Cheers Granny

Thanks - I am already trying to read everything about it to be prepared - I am also a "no frills practical person" We will go away for weekends at first but you have to get it right before then as its too late after you buy the van. We are probably going to be like you and not have a base as we don't own a home.

Welcome to the forum first of.
We bought our caravan last July, and while we were looking met a lovely couple who gave us some food for thought. So on thinking about what she said our van we chose had a side kitchen. She told me a friend of thiers was cooking in the front kitchen in thier van and stepped back to do whatever it was I can't remember. Well she had the hot frying pan in her hand and fell down the stairs burning herself in the process and injuring her ankle too. Just a little thing but to me it was important enough to choose a van with a side kitchen.

Cheers
Ell

Thank you - I suppose I shouldn't reply to everyone as they respond - although I'd like to! It will make the thread very long .
Now that's the info I need! I like the kitchen at the front but didn't think about the weight or the proximity to the door!
Thanks guys!