That's a good rule, I've told my g/f the same rule. I say it's best to move in first, once they know you're a good tenant then you can discuss further. At least we don't have a dog yet, so we aren't stuck from that perspective.
I too would love to leave the rat race, but I'm stuck in Sydney for work. I do see myself moving to Country Victoria or even NSW at some point though to escape, first things first though.