I have a 37" Sceptre LCD HDTV that I use as a HDTV and a computer monitor. It doesn't wash out if viewed from the side or top/bottom. Maybe the LCD projection ones have a little problem with that.
The thing to look at is the resolution. The XBox 360 doesn't do 1080p and neither do any TV stations. But my laptop does and I sit close enough that I can use the 1920x1080 resolution.
The HDMI inputs are important, but it is hard finding any with more than one. I have one and that is about all that I need. I would also get one with a ATSC tuner built in so all you need to do is hook up a HDTV antenna to get your local HD channels. It isn't as important if you have the HD cable, but I can live without cable if I can get perfect quality basic channels.
I would also look on-line to see what the prices are. You could save some on sales taxes if you can find someplace with free shipping.