I am in a N-Reg group along with a certain Mr Monster from this forum and the main attraction to me is obviously the IR element. Its much easier to maintain the IR once you have it rather(self certifying) than the £1000+ check flight with a CAA examiner and so a much more attractiv option for getting places.
I cant comment about the cost element as the group hasnt been running that long and brought the aircraft over from the US so we have had a few bills to shell out for but, hopefully, now all the major expense is over and we can start enjoiyng the flying.
I understand from the group chairman that they had a few inspections on aircraft done that turned out to complete lemons before they settled on the one we have (PA28RT-201). So I would err on the side of caution and get a prebuy done.
J.