Welcome to the forum.

I think you have been well informed in all counts.

Getting second hand is a good alternative if your bike frame size is in common size. If your frame size is either large end or small end, you'll have harder time finding it. If you are like me, riding 49cm frame, chance of finding a bike that you like in your size is very slim.

Yep, you'll be riding your road bike a lot more than MTB.