Appliances! AHHHHHH.......

So when buying your first house you usually have to buy some appliances, lol. I am looking for gas stoves, built in microwave/stove hood things, fridge, and a washer and dryer set. I can not fathom the options out there. Seriously we have side by side, top freezer, bottom freezer options in a fridge. You can find washer/dryer sets that talk to you and stoves that are all digital and snazzy. How do you choose? So far my requirements are stainless (the dishwasher in the house we are buying is stainless), and energy star rated for the kitchen. For washer/dryer sets I need energy star rated and very durable as the Hubs work clothes are pretty dirty most days! Trying to navigate this mine field is enough to send me into the loony bin! Any thoughts? What brands do you like? What do you hate? Guidance is much appreciated.