Flying in the US with EASA PPL(A)
Hi James
I'm getting a 152 for about the same rate in California. $115 was the cost for a 172 at that place. I'd get on with the FAA approval ASAP though as they can take up to 90days to invite you to your interview (although mine was within about 6 weeks last summer). If you are just hiring you don't need any TSA approval but if you are doing any training then you probably will.
Enjoy.
SU