I've had a Chipmunk, 2 RV-4s and now an RV-8. Without a doubt the RV-8 is the best all rounder. It doesn't meet your requirement of a certified aircraft, but has been well designed and engineered. The RV-4 is cheaper to obtain and, if you don't mind the solo aerobatics limitation (actually weight and CG limit) and the reduced space, you will have one of the best all round handling, performing and touring capable aircraft around. The -8 adds payload, range, load versatility and cockpit/baggage space.
I have dual aerobatic capability, 170 KTAS cruise at altitude, 1800 ft/min climb, nearly 1000nm range (at 150 KTAS) and night/IFR capability (in US) at significantly lower ownership costs than the Chippy. With modern EFIS units, some people have added a slave PFD for the back cockpit.
As was mentioned , the rear seat rudder pedal option is not very robust, so it wouldn't be any use as a primary tailwheel trainer and being amateur built, couldn't be used as a club/school aircraft other than to the limit of the shared ownership concession.
It also is one of the least demanding tailwheel aircraft in terms of its ground handling; comparable to the Chippy although stiffer and springier gear legs.