I've used both for 4-5 years, IPB is just (imo of course) so many levels above vB. For me, it's the appearance. IPB forums have SO much more customization ability, and if you get a good designer, it will look 10x better than a vB design. Also, just imo, the IPB installing first time and vB installing first time, IPB was much easier. It does almost everything for you. A big pet peeve of mine was also the need to change files in every skin for mods on vB. To my latest knowledge, that's not required in IPB.
vb is far better , the last time i visited ipb website i coudnt find mod support like vb , vb's mod support is just like open source
I bet you own a football (soccer) forum. IPB is absolutely loved by Football forums and members. I prefer MBoard.
Actually I don't, contrary to my name and my IPB love I did own/run sports forums, and my members, switching between vB and IPB, LOVED IPB. One thing is true: Members will love one or the other, not both.
IPB is good for styling and we have many mods too for it VB is good too with increased security than IPB betta for a business type forum
In all those five points you mentioned, vB wins it imo. I've got three vB licenses right now and am loving it. IPB? I had one, but got rid of it about 6 months ago.
I think I am going to purchase a IPB license. Will I be able to hire a programmer to make a few specific mods for me?