Dan writes:

If anyone can
give me some feedback on just how problematic septic systems can be,
any questions I might ask the realtor when we see the house for the
1st time (he probably won't KNOW, but at least I'LL look like I DO
;-), any other general comments on septics, etc.

The true cost is typically cheaper than paying for utility sewer rates.
You just have to pay for work on it now and then. Periodic pumping (per
tables you can find on the Web). A drainfield should last decades, then
costs $1000s to redo, but then you've saved all those sewerage fees, right?
Think of it as do-it-yourself sewage treatment.