After having owned Brittanies I can say a couple of things:
1. A good one will bust brush and will do anything it can to find birds. Great upland dogs.
2. I wouldn't even try to make one water retrieve ducks...I'm sure there are exceptions...
3. Field bred Brits and Springers too can range from "on the active side" to "ready to burst out of their own skin" interms of hyperness.
4. They are extremely sensitive, and you can blow their attitude by overly excessive punishment or even loud yelling.
5. If you condition them from an early age to being around kids and in the house most will do ok. Plan on lots of attention and training. (and brushing and clipping!)Every Brit I've know develops a pretty strong "one man attitude" as they mature.

You should be able to find one that will hunt for a reasonable price. East of the mountains seems to be a place to look for dogs that are hunted more than on the West side. Every one will say you are taking a chance by going through a private party...and they're right. But as long as you find a dog that's got good instincts and then train, train, train, I'm sure it will work out for you. Whatever you do, train the dog on live birds and in real cover as soon as it can handle it. A birdy Brit will want to run...you may need to seek training help, or at least a good manual. I wouldn't put a shock collar on a good Brit ever.