Alright, after doing way to much research, and buying 3 tents to set up and try out. The rei mountain 3, arete 2 and ems traverse. I have decided I don't really like any of them. I will be returning them shortly.
I definitely need a double wall tent. A single wall makes me way too nervous for New England slush storms. Even though the sierra designs are very lightweight and offer a lot of space, this rules out their converts, which I do find to be attractive tents. If you were somewhere that was really cold and dry I think they would be an excellent choice.
Unfortunately REI no longer has a lifetime warranty policy. This totally stinks, because I used to buy everything from them.
I had been trying to keep my price range below $400, because when I first started browsing it seemed there were some great options at that price point. Now, I think I am better off just finding the tent I will be most happy with. At the moment, I am most seriously considering the hilleberg allak. It will give me and a second person our own doors and storage space. When getting ready for skiing, having your own space is really important.
http://www.hilleberg.com/home/products/allak/allak.php
It's pricey, but this guys video really sold me on the functionality of their tents. Setting up the tent and rainfly in one go will make a huge difference when trying to setup in snow.
with not a drop inside.. 
thank god for the good seam seal job and waterproof spraying I gave it... 
