Yeti,
I've owned an st4/st4s for the last 4 years and was very happy. Have recently swapped for a Multi and ignoring the new toy syndrome i'm well pleased.
The riding position is more comfortable (seat excepted which i've now changed), feels like a big supermoto, is very torquey and is tremendous FUN for something which isn't the most powerful thing in the world.
I'm lucky enough to also have a 996SPS as well, but its the Multi i use for day to day riding. It makes the daily commute far more enjoyable.
Looks wise it does divide opinion, with some of the people at work think its the most ugly creation on 2 wheels, but i disagree, its for me to ride and enjoy rather than please other people.
I didn't intend buying one but after a test ride was smitten.
Its easy and effortless to ride and love the way it punches out of corners, roundabouts, traffic lights without resorting to the higher speeds encouraged by the 996/ 4 valve engines, and as such may well fit your brief with your reasons for selling your 996.
Dealer wise i got mine from Woods in Abergele in North Wales, they've been great but as they're not close to you this probably isn't relevant.
give one a try and i think you'll understand why its been Ducatis best seller in England. Good luck.
Just as a passing thought, why not give your 996 away rather than sell it to a woman
ONLY JOKING RUTH.