Osiris looks like an AWESOME way to get into pattern. Under $400. I just watched their video detailing the assembly and beginning pattern flying.

Sebart Wind 110 is very competitive, slightly larger and more expensive than the Osiris. Right around $600.

Venus II was a touch under $300. It's a heavier plane (though built very strong), has a basic sport airfoil, flat, glued in stabilizers - definitely not designed specifically for F3A flying. This plane was supported by one of the biggest retailers in the business and thus was made in enormous volumes. So, little effort into design (comparatively) and mass production. For an extra $100, you get a plane designed by F3A pilots (Osiris) that basically comes put together out of the box (3hrs build time), and is extremely capable.

Osiris and Wind are designed by top level F3A pilots. A design is made, a deal made to have the plane assembled... then the plane is tested, modifications made, second batch of planes is made... and how many of these planes are sold? A few hundred? A lot of effort goes into these planes by a small group of people. They have to charge to make it worth their time.

Granted I know next to nothing about the composite stuff, but there the market is smaller, the plane is bigger, and the process more advanced. Sounds like $$$ to me.