Since you mentioned you have a the tools and mood for tinkering, it may be a good choice. You will be able to do your own modifications as well as maintenance if needed.
You may also consider something else from the Tempest robot lineup (SSR1, OSR2+, SR6). I have written a guide on them in the past: [Guide] What Is the OSR2 / SR6 / SSR1 and How Do I Get One?
Bit of both. The standard method is to control it with a computer software via USB. Alternatively, you can setup the robot to connect to your Wi-Fi. Your computer (in the same local network) can then controls it wirelessly via UDP.
Bluetooth isn’t standard, but I know FunSR1 by FunOSR supports Bluetooth connection, which can be controlled via virtual serial port.
If your wife lives afar, I’m thinking about Avya Remote, but I bet there are other stuff available.
This is BOM created by @makeitfun, for your reference: