I was given a GP Cessna 182 and am flying it as my 2nd plane (NexStar was 1st). I cannot address the building issue (it was already built) but I am very happy with it as a 2nd plane to fly. Sure it's still a high wing tricycle monoplane, but it requires more skills, and mine has a 4 stroke engine. All of these and that I will be adding flaps later, make it a good 2nd plane for me. It flies faster, and since there is little to no dihedral, it does take more skill to fly and land. I'm sure you will get many other opinions but I like mine.

For my next one, I will be researching low or mid wing, tail draggers with flaps.

Good luck and keep is informed as to your decision and your experiences.

Richard