I'm looking for a new weather station also. Have a 6-year-old Davis VP2 with nonfunctioning rain gauge. I am very much a novice, in fact, I wouldn't have a weather station except for my wife who is really into knowing the highest wind gust, rainfall, etc.
What I do not like about the VP2 is the software, console, rain gauge reed having to be replaced, etc.
What I do like about the VP2 is that it is solar powered wireless to my console. I am not wanting to go up to the roof any more than absolutely necessary. So, I could live with something that has battery backup to solar for the sensor station if battery life is >1 year.
Would also like to keep it under $300.
Any advice is appreciated.