At the end of the day its each to their own, if your going to do the hours FAB/AGL is cheap. If your only planning on doing enough to stay current then its not.
What I will say though is that as a member of the 4 seat group at AGL you have access to 2 Archers with twin GNS430 (a step up on a warrior) and 2 172' one of which is a G1000. All the aircraft are in excellent condition and you have (as an AGL member) access to the discounted rates at FAB which are VERY competitive.
Geez, its starting to sound like a sales pitch now......
To close, it suits me and many others very well but everyone is different and have differing requirements/needs. Its not a scam as previously stated, it just doesn't suit you.
Phil
P.S. To rent the PA28 direct without being a group member is 125+14.76 landing fee which is 139.76. No monthlys.