Since this is a philosophical discussion, assume if I buy on my own I
will have to buy a VFR airplane to get a decent one that's affordable.
If I buy a VFR airplane that would rule out getting an instrument rating

My advise is to purchase an IFR aircraft.
Even if you never get the rating, it is safer and easier to sell.
My aircaft and I are IFR rated.
Hank N1441P