Justin Gombos wrote:

I haven't decided yet whether or not to blow a large chunk of what I
have on it, or to be frugal. A Columbia will take a lot out me,
particularly if insurance is 5 figures/year. Renting is the better
value, but it's not viable where I am. And from what I've seen in
other cities, the rental industry isn't exactly teeming with options.

I think you need to do some more research into the cost of ownership of an
aircraft. I read some pretty good advise once that if the price of an
aircraft was even approaching being a problem for you that you shouldn't be
buying that aircraft.