I buy what I like.... and I almost never sell my reps. Ratio of rep price vs gen price never comes into the picture. I also buy a rep based on its modding potential. Afterall, modding is the exciting bit of this hobby isn't it?
My philosphy is simple I set aside about USD350.00 per month into this hobby. If it does not get spent, it gets carried over to the next month. If there's an expensive piece out there, I'll have to wait for 2 or 3 months to get it. Discipline is paramount. While you wait, an interesting piece might just come up for sale via the sales corner.
Honestly, reps are rather affordable but its the modding part. Gen dial, crowns, luming, servicing, AR coating etc etc that makes this hobby a bit pricey. However, that's also the exciting bit. A one of a kind rep.
Cheers
Seesta181