Welcome aboard Keith! You'll find a bunch of knowledgeable folks on here that can be a valuable resource!
While a lot of folks on this site prefer outboards because of their lower maintenance requirements and fewer corrosion issues, the I/O models have a couple of thing going for them:
1. Better ride and balance with CG further forward due to weight of engine located forward of transom.
2. Relatively simple designs you can maintain yourself if you have moderate mechanical skills and can maintain your own car, etc.
Checkout Pelican's post with a lot of valuable tips on
I/O maintenance.