Ukulele hangout

I'd be interested in something akin to a buyers gd, what to look for, where to find the best properties of a uke. This week I heard the difference in projection between a solid body koa with a glossy finish vs one with a satin finish. A big difference. Also a difference with strings. But, what more should I look for (I'm thinking of buying a quality tenor with the trade or sale value of my two ukes, assessed at almost $800 and I only mention that bc that's all the money I'd have to buy the tenor with.). What kind of tenor should I be able to afford with that much money? Which brands should I be on the lookout for? Explanations, opinions...all would be of value and received with great gratitude 🙏❤️ Thanks!

Is this something I should ask about here or should I wait till I reach that part by taking uke theory? Thanks so much!

Can anyone explain how to strum so that the index finger does not strike the fretboard on the downstrum? I can't find any videos on this subject. My index finger doesn't always strike it but I can tell when it does because I can hear it. Thank you to anyone who responds.