Mtalinm brings up some good points of concern but Im much more upbeat about the Soho. I've got about 7000-8000 miles through 6 seasons (18 months) on a commute that runs 17-25 each way.

24 miles a day should be no problem with the Soho but fair warning that Soho's lowest speed will not keep you in the saddle with full Panniers for steep hills. (At least not at my weight, with my normal bike load, and slow tires)

I've had to change a few flats and found them to be slightly more annoying than normal if you have the correct tools. 1/2 hour first one, 20 minutes the second but the biggest problem was the weather. You need to carry a 15 mm wrench like any IGH rider would have, and two small wrenches (Or wrench and screwdriver) to take off the back brake link if you want to replace the tube.

Relying on tube patching without removing the wheel is nice, but I always seem to double hole the tube or hole it in the worst location that requires a tube change. The stock tires are only good for about 1000 miles rear, 2000 miles front so then switch the known commuter tires that wear properly such Marathon Pus, or Armadillo, or Ultra Gators. Make sure you size them to fit the fender. Personally I am using a Continental Travel Contact in the back but its a bit too wide/big plus with thick inner tubes its a bit heavy. The Panaracer Tserve in front is also a slow tire. Next set I'll be going to the standards and try to ride without the thick tubes. Maybe a Crossroads Armadillo if my path riding increases.

As to tension, there is a device you can buy that checks the tension and works great. After a few checks with the gauge you can get awfully close by feel with your fingers. The gauge is a bit expensive but I had early issues with tension so felt better knowing the tension was correct.

As to the drum brakes - well, they are what they are. If you keep them well lubricated with the Shimano Black grease they are very low maintenance. I lubricated them within a week of ownership which suggests that you should check them on day one. Personally, I've commuted on 3 types of low end brakes and found the drum brakes give me the least hassle with the best wear.

If I could turn the clock back, Id definitely buy the exact bike again. But today, Id be trying to buying a similar setup with the Alfine 11 IGH. It may take another year before the Alfine 11 goes mainstream, though.

Edit: I guess I should say I am really sold on the belt drive. I will be the first to admit that there are issues, but there are plenty of places you can read bout the pros and the cons so I wont belabor em. If you dont go with the Soho, or Trek, and your price range is $1000-$2000 do yourself a favor and look at a variety of belt drive bikes.