Until about five years ago, I had owned outright 3 different aircraft. My experience of the cost of it is nothing like what's being quoted here. Sure you pick up some bills, but if you are serious about accumulating hours, it's an option worth considering.
My annual cost ran something like the following for a metal two seater, bearing in mind that it goes back a few years:
£700 - parking and landing fees
£1200 - insurance - optional but highly recomended
£150 - 50 hour check
£1500 - annual
£2000 - C or A
In my best year I did 400 hours. I then sold the a/c for £500 less than I paid for it, but allowing for a few extras that I picked up on the way, my dry hourly costs where less than 15 pounds an hour. exceptional I know, but if I'd done half the hours, these costs would double.
Now I know people who can better this. Buy a PFA aircraft, find a friendly inspector and the annual maintenance costs will come to less than £1000, asuming no nasties. That mind you, is the risk.
I've done about 1100 hours on my own aircrafts, and I recon on balance I'm still quids in. But, you do need to purchase wisely, and the sums only work out if you do plenty of flying, and that's the reason I'm now in a group as I no longer have the time to fly as often as I used to. You naturally also have the convenience of your chariot being available whenever you want it. Big plus for hours building.
Whatever and however you do it, make sure it's enjoyable.
PS