Hey dudes, about to purchase this game on Steam since I see the CD key issue is fixed and was wondering - does my level 8 character with a bunch of money transfer over to the full game, or do I have to start over?  Thanks!

I don't know by first hand experience, but I think that's how it worked for the original game, so I'd say that yes, the progress would carry over but only up to level 7 or so. In other news, let me know when you get that game, I'll totally play online with you. Mount & Blade is so awesome.

Yes, just press import/export data on character screen.

Awesome dudes, thanks!  And add me on Steam Vince, we'll try to get a few games going sometime - Mitchparris is my Steam ID.