Piper as a newbie owner?

[weilke]

FL to NY is a loong trip in a Cherokee and a single fuel-stop in a Bo with Tip-tanks (or a Comanche for that matter).

If travelling is the main use of the plane, get something fast with big tanks. You'll pay for it in upkeep, but you will actually use it. If local travel around the state is your goal, then one of the trainers will work well and allow you to save quite a bit on investment and upkeep.

 

[Neal Howard]

A Cherokee is a great first plane that fits your mission profile and budget with ease. I owned and flew a Cherokee 140 for a decade as my first plane. I'd look for a 180 or Archer with low time engine and modern avionics for that large of a purchase and maint budget.