Actually you should never pay more than you can afford, and if you're willing to trade research time, and patience for making good choices it can definitely play in your favor.I did learn from this site that I do not have to buy more than I can afford for my first pair to get a good birding experience.
My use will be from home primarily and from inside for now.
I contacted the store I planned to purchase from asking about the Kowa Genesis 8x33. The representative I spoke with thought I should consider the Nikon Monarch HG 8x30 as lighter and a far better optic. After reading about the rolling ball (I’m still trying to understand it), I was hesitant about the HG, though the rep said it rarely happens. I don’t want to let price influence me too much, but Kowa is having a spring sale which ends tomorrow. The Genesis is $499 and the BD II is $325
It's interesting to read through your opening post again and compare it to some of the replies that indicated the poster hadn't read the information already here from the start. That noted, you'll find there are generally two types of posters when it comes to making suggestions; the ones who think you should buy what they like, and the ones who will try to pick up on what your requirements are and actually help lead you to choose what will work best for you, regardless of their own needs or preferences.
Can't wait to read your review on first impressions when the Genesis arrives.