It is your requirement for 4 seats that really limits the choices........ realistically how many flights will you need four seater ?
Indeed, I know it limits the choice hence I'm rather stumped on options and asking for ideas here!
The whole need for 4 seats would be for family trips probably 2-3 times per month + the odd jolly flight with friends etc, I'd probably do 50-70hrs in it per year plus another 30-50hrs in my single seater. Renting isnt really an option at £170+ per hr and a typical min 3 hrs per day its away etc.
Rather liking the Auster the more I look at them, I had a share in a Tri Pacer for a couple of years and really enjoyed that and now also have access to a Supercub which I'm enjoying as I just find vintage types have far more character than modern Cessna's and Pipers.
I'm not in any rush so will keep an eye on the used Auster / Beagle market I think unless I stumble over something else.......