Lots of choices! Side by side vs tandem, Rotax vs. Lyc/Cont, TW vs. Trike.
I've owned certified and EAB and in the end, there's not a huge difference in total cost of ownership. Granted, hiring an IA/AP can add to the costs, but find one that will work with you and save.
RANS, Kitfox, Just, Legend, CubCrafters, and others all make great planes.
Currently own/fly a Cessna 172 and a RANS S7. They will do everything I want to do. Sold a KF, liked the plane, but prefer tandem for Backcountry type stuff.
Boils down to personal preference.