#2 Do you need to use the hose on the back?? Our laundry only has 2 doors and no windows and I really don't want the house open if I am using it of a night time.
If you want to leave a spot on your laundry wall where the paint starts peeling off, then go for it. This is an operating characteristic of most entry-level dryers. Many of these just dump condensation through a grille on the front door. At least the hose gives the user a chance to direct the vapour into a particular spot.
It may be a bit late now, but for a house with a laundry where there's limited ventilation opportunities, a condenser dryer is well worth the extra money. Another option would be to install an exhaust fan in your ceiling (if you're an owner-occupier) and point the hose at it.