Is it going to be for macro or for short telephoto portraiture? For macro, there are definite alternatives to consider. If you plan on staying DX then the newer Nikkor 85mm f/3.5 micro is hard to beat for the money. All the good stuff - modern design, AF-S, lens coatings, VR and so on - but half the price of the newer 105 VR, which is technologically similar. Being a proper Nikkor, no compatibility problems down the line with your cameras, and quicker focusing than the Tamron with its slower focus motor. Plus, it's really light meaning you can usefully handhold without having to continually counter the weight of the front elements. No one could ever suggest the 105VR is a light lens!
It's probably Nikon's most underrated lens, but one which will gain a cult following over the next few years.