The Dr. is referring to Jabba's RV10 which is in reference to a "drag" that took place between them where inflated ego's took over and nobody really knows what happened
At least the local builds have been under some scrutiny, and are probably closely built to VANS' plans.
I must say that I disagree with this comment. There are no mandated inspections on Australian built experimental aircraft during the build process. The only "inspection" per-se is the cursory check for the issue of the C of A by the SAAA or CASA delegate. This "inspection" involves a basic look-over and check of the flight controls to ensure the ailerons and elevator do what they are supposed to. Blame this cursory check on the liability issues of recent times. I once watched an RV builder attaching his wings using a sledge hammer to put in the bolts, not to mention him banging in his prop bolts with an over-sized hammer; there is nothing in the system that prevents this.
An RV purchased in the USA or AUS could be a mixed bag in which you have no idea what you are getting, but hey, that's no different to any other aircraft on the market after all.
The initial purchase price is not so much important as the on-going running costs. A mate bought a second-hand RV6 and was hit with a $6k LAME 100 hourly bill as he had a leaking pot and a cracked engine mount. It's the luck of the draw really, even on a new aircraft, things happen.
In reality, RV owners are generally middle-aged with solid incomes, capable of supporting such an aircraft. If you don't fit this category and can't afford the fuel burn, $1000 - $2000 hundred hourlies with the occasional large expense, then the RV or any aircraft of this calibre maybe not your cup of tea...
Insurance is usually based a percentage of value figure, mixed with a variable on your experience and may be higher for a tailwheel versus nose wheel in the case of the RV.
QBE used to offer discounts for SAAA members that have completed their training programs for pilot proficiency and maintenance. Hard to give a ballpark for insurance, but I know people getting insurance for 1.8% through to 4% of hull value + 22-25% taxes and surcharges. Eg. ($100,000 * .03) * 22% = $3,660 + liability cover.... quickest and easiest way would be to give QBE a call and ask what it would be for your situation.