Welcome Dave.
I chose to have my frame painted professionally as that's how they were treated originally. Lots of pro and anti arguments about all of the various finishes, so your choice, naturally. I don't regret my choice, but not sure which is best if your bike is going to be a daily runner rather than a dry weather toy (mine's the latter as it deserves a long dry retirement after years of seemingly neglectful use).
Cheers, D.