the most influential thing in liking early in a relationship is physical attractiveness. Would you agree with that?

Answer 1

I think it would. As humans we are drawn to things that please us visually.

Answer 2

Definitely. However, one you begin to learn about the other person, attractiveness is much less influential. See:

http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/AttractionEconomy.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/RomanceFear.html

I hope this helps a little more. Thanks for asking.