Gave the initial post the twice-over. Very close (or at least closer than typically) to the house rules I run. A few differences here and there, but surprisingly similar.
And this line:
I would like things to become more character driven. I'll lay out rumors and plot hooks from the world and your own backstory. It will be up to you guys to follow up on what interests you.
Is extremely similar to my style of DMing. I've had problems with it before, it's more difficult than other methods, certainly. But it's so much more rewarding as a DM and as a player, IMHO.
Oh, and trust me, I'm REALLY far off from a suck up. I probably come across that way right now since I'm only giving off positive opinions. Really, it's just because your game and everything else I've seen so far sounds so much like what I'd like to play in that it's truly refreshing.