anyone have any opinions on what house to join? i know they're all very different and provide different quest opportunities. should i pick one fitting my character type? or which one is most fun. any opinions or ideas would be helpful

Telvanni for mage types
Redoran for fighters
Hlandu(?) for thiefs

Hlaalu.

Telvanni looks like it'll be the most rewarding, and hlaalu gives you money for each mission, but redoran doesn't give you didly squat

also, telvanni is more evil looking. you successfully steal something or kill someone, they look away. gotta love their rules. and everyone knows evil means awesome

Yes, their rules rock:
Originally said by Mistress Therana, Mistress of Tel Branora, councilor of the great house Telvanni:

According to Telvanni custom, killing is justifiable on any practical grounds -- in particular, justifiable if you can get away with it, and it serves your purposes. Killing is neither sinful nor dishonorable. Telvanni abide by Imperial law only so far as it is enforced. No Imperial guards or Legion garrisons are found in most Telvanni settlements.

that's a lie. you still can't kill any telvanni as you like because it will still be reported as a crime.

Telvanni don't mind... they are all rich, they pay the fine. Anyway it says "if you can get away with it"... in other words, if you are seen killing, it's just your fault

Telvanni have the most impressive looking stronghold - though that isn't saying much. Halaalu is more practical, being closer to the action for the most part, but it really all depends on what "look" you like the most.

What has your character been up to in the main Lutirez? Thieving, fighting or spellcasting? Go with the one you think suits. Each have their own benefits, but its marginal really.