I agree with Nick. It gets hot but really no worse than some other vapes out there. You just have to get accustomed to where to hold it. It will be uncomfortably warm but you really don't need to worry about burning yourself from touching it on the outside.
I myself have had to shove the mouthpiece in, close it up and stash it away quickly. No issues there so I wouldn't let the heat concern be a show stopper and keep you from purchasing.
Regarding where you get it....I am pretty sure it's all being fulfilled from the same place (vaporizerusa) so it really doesn't make much difference where you get it unless you can find a coupon code to work.
I got mine on preorder for 20% off from VaporizerUSA. However they have had promo's since then where the discount codes have not worked. In fact I haven't seen any code work anywhere since it's been released. You may need to foot the bill for the entire $250 at this point.
I also think it will more likely stay this way for a while since they have been able sell out their stock and have had to wait for new stock to come in. You may be able to find some codes work for a free grinder or possibly some other goodies but I doubt you will find a discount on the unit. Please come back and let everyone know if you get something to work.
I also agree with Nick on the case. My solution is posted earlier in the thread (along with Nick's). Mine is really better for storing at home unless you have a larger bag to take out. I keep my device, tools, extra batteries and up to 10 cans all in the case. Nick's case is better for just taking the unit but there is not as much room for extra's.
This brings me to my last point. Please take time to read the entire thread and/or use the search function. There are a few of us here that have been pretty active in answering questions so there is a lot of info out there. FC rules ask that members take the time to do this so there is not a lot of duplicated info. And yes..use the edit button rather than double post. The only exception here is when it's gone because too much time has passed between posts. Then you should generally start your second post with "edit button gone" or something like that.
Good luck and welcome!