Consdering vBulletin
 

I am a long time IPB user, and I highly disliked the look of the vBulletin 3.8.x series. I have to say, design wise, vBulletin has really cleaned up their act with 4.x.x and I *LOVE* the high availability of modifications for vB4, considering that this version has only been out for a short time. I have a few questions before I consider purchasing though?

1. Are licenses leased or owned?
Let's say I buy the publishing suite for $285. Does this entitle me to use the version of the software I purchased forever, or must I renew every year? Also, does "free updates" mean I will get free updates for the duration of 4.x.x or does it mean I will get them for the duration of 4.0.x?

2. What are some alternative skins?
I've seen a few on skinbox I liked, is there any way to preview some available custom skins for vBulletin? I really don't like the default one all that much.

3. What is the average time for support?

4. Are purchases cleared manually, or automatically?