Since you invited earnest comments, I would ask that you give this some thought:
An 8x5 layout is an interesting size, and it lets you do a lot with tracks and switches. As currently laid out, you will only have an oval and one turn out to park your train.
Believe me when I say this, and it is meant very respectfully and kindly: You are going to get bored as heck, really quickly, just watching that train go around and around in an oval. I mean, you are going to get really tired of it. And, if you invite someone to come down and look at your train, they will be rolling their eyes and ready to go back upstairs after the train has gone around the oval four times.
I can tell that you like scenery and buildings, but I think other members can show you that even with a more extensive track layout, there is plenty of room for scenery.
I am a novice. My layout is 9ft x 5ft, only a little bit longer than yours. Here's a picture of what I have been able to do with the extensive advice and help from Members of this board. And, I haven't really even started on the scenery:
It does take time and money to buy the track, the bedding and the switches and turnouts. But, you don't have to do it all at once You just have to make sure that you have enough room to do a little at a time.
So, perhaps you may want to "sketch-out" a more extensive layout on your board with pencil or tape, and then leave enough room in and among your scenery (a railroad easement) to build it out in the future.
Hope this gives you some ideas.
Thanks,
Mannyrock
