mobile

I purchased a new Nexus 7 (2013) a couple of weeks ago, and if I could return it, I would. I have a couple of user issues I just hate. I've been searching around for solutions, and I think there may be some, but I'm new to all of this, and I need some help and advise.

My first issue, and this is huge for me, is waking the tablet up. I primarily use the tablet to control my music server (Bubble DS Next). I'm frequently on the tablet while listening, but not always. The problem is that when the tablet sleeps, I have to use the power button to wake it up. I find the power button difficult to press, and it's just a pain. I have a Samsung S5 phone, and I love the physical home button for waking up the phone. I wish the Nexus 7 had the same button. I saw where someone was able to double tap the screen to wake up the Nexus 7. Is this part of some custom ROM? How could I get this feature?

My second issue relates to the on screen back, home, and apps buttons. I HATE that the home button is right below the space bar where I constantly seem to hit it while typing. I solved this issue while browsing the internet by using Dolphin as a browser in full screen mode. Is there a way to always hide these buttons unless you swipe up from the bottom?

I'm prepared to unlock and root the tablet, but I want to be certain I'm doing it for the right reasons. I'm not a power user of any kind, so other than wanting these 2 fixes, I'm fine with everything else about the tablet.

Thanks.