Matt,
I just did the first float test on my boat. I still have a lot of construction to do, but I have been worried about the attitude she would have in the water. I was right to worry because she is sitting very low in the water, and has a nose down attitude. This will change as I add weight in the aft end. The sitting low in the water will be ongoing. It will be an issue with my deck drains potentially backing water into the cockpit when we have a bunch of guys, bait, gear, ice and fish on board. I have the option to make corrective actions at this point, and I will do that.
I know I have said this before, but I do so now with even more conviction. Take her to the water and do a float test on her after all the major weight is on board, and before you have her totally finished out. At this stage moving components to change her weight distribution will be easy. After your 30 minute float bring her back to the property and finish her out.
You have made so many great changes. You have stated that you are not a naval engineer.
I would take several barrels and have a pump where you can fill the barrels to trim her during that float. so you will now where the weight needs to change relative to the where you want the waterline. Great opportunity to mark were the waterline were it needs to be painted on.
I know this seems to be a big consumption of time, transport, and money that may not be value added, but I believe that in the end you will be very gland you did! For me there is a lake 20 minutes away.
Just looking out for you man, and not saying any of this to piss you off. If this had been just parts changes and a big components add, I would not be that worried. You widened her and stretched her. Changed the free board, and added a built in swim platform....... this is a lot of change for a boat.
If you get her in the water and that swim platform is under water 3 inches you are going to be unhappy. If you need to add 1000 pounds of fuel or water tanks to the stern to make her sit in the water right you can do that much less costly before she is totally polished out.
I suspect that seeing her sitting in the water will be a level of inspiration that will really boost your sprits.