I am looking at buying a few new ceiling fans. The ones currently installed
in my home are mostly geared towards children and/or in general aren't the
right fans for me.

What are the key items that one should look for in quality ceiling fans?

I am very picky on noise and wobble, vibration, hum, etc. I don't mind
paying more for these items. I am willing to pay more to eliminate these
items, but I've been many places - Lowe's, Home Depot, specialty stores, etc
and been suggested fans from $80 to $800. One sales person says a $100 Monte
Carlo is better than a $200 Casablanca. Another says a $150 AirFlow is
better than a $150 Hampton Bay. I know everyone has an opinion and though,
but what things can I look at for myself to find what would provide the
smoothest, quietest operation? Its hard to compare this in a noisy showroom
are in the middle of Home Depot.