A laid back, fairly unopinionated and sweet person is far better than an opinionated person who would force his own decisions on you. He must have his own interests, I think you can enjoy his company more if you take interest in his perspectives. Don't think that a good partner needs to challenge you at all levels. Unable to discuss politics, philosophy does not turn him into a bad husband. Marriage is just a whole new adventure, remain as positive as you can.
*Personally, I think spending a lot of time together before the wedding kinda takes away the surprise element out of the entire process. *
"Istikhara" means to seek goodness from Allah (Exalted is He), meaning when one intends to do an important task they do istikhara before the task. The one who does the istikhara is as if they request Allah Almighty that, O the Knower of Unseen (Exalted is He) guide me if this task is better for me or not?
Istikhara needs to be done before you decide to marry a person (arranged or love) i.e before getting engaged.
I am 100% agreed :)