This is an excellent story so far I agree with you that Harry's childhood or lack there of and friendship with Ron stopped Harry from achieving his potential there is also the fact Hermione enjoyed showing off her knowledge and making others look stupid and knowledge is what made up all of Hermione's self worth in the books so I think Harry would hide any real ability to stay friends with her unless it was life or death.
There is also the fact the Headmaster kept Harry alone, ilolated or without support when in the magical world Hermione had Minerva visit her Harry had Hagrid who was loyal to Albus and knew little else, Minerva as head of house did nothing good to help Harry when he needed it even when it was lesser things that like or death for example in second year she made no effort to help Harry deal with what is said about him or to talk to him. I think the Headmaster kept Harry ignorant and made sure his circle of friends was small and loyal to him.
I agree with you about the blood wards. There is also the fact that all the time he spent with Poppy and nothing was done to fix the harm done to Harry by the Dursley's.
I am beyond pleased that Ron is not Harry's friend as he was a very poor one in the books and was a worthless character that held back everybody around him and I think meeting the Weasleys was a set up by the Headmaster.
It is good also that Draco is not going looking for a fight with Harry a far more Slytherin move to just watch and its a nice change from instand war between the two.
I like this smart Harry who is not so shy and trying to be normal when he never can be and accepts who he is. I am glad Harry is making an effort to manage his gold and find out about his family and godfather.
If in the future if Harry ends up with a girlfriend or future wife I hope its Luna they would make a good couple.
I look forward to the next chapter.