If I could just chime in, the Note 2 was the best phone purchase I've ever made. There's lots of dev support (including dozens and dozens of ROMs to choose from if you decide to root), and rooting is a simple process.
But even without root, the phone was really good stock. I don't get ROMs that are too far from stock (currently using CleanROM ACE) but just add nice functionality.
The only problem I've had is with the S-Pen, but that's because I was too rough with it. Otherwise everything about the phone is fantastic.
EDIT: Like to point out that until this phone, I was an iPhone guy through and through. Development stagnated on it though, and it has more restrictions than I care for. Making the switch has been the best thing I've done. I'd say the only downside is the large screen on the Note 2, only because I could never go back to something iPhone sized...or even other Android device sized. I'll probably end up just getting new Notes from now on haha.