I love this game also. First edition had masses of issues with the rules corrections/errata/clarifications being at least twice as large as the actual rule book was. As you mention, it's a pity they cut some corners with second edition components, but there are workable solutions. I didn't like the whole sliding markers for the character stats even in first edition.

I was a bit surprised that it took them so long to bring out the expansion that adds another 50 haunts and increases the re-playability of an already pretty re-playable game.