It depends on lifestyle. Some people love Agas because they are are the typical country types roasting, baking, heat in kitchen, dog and ones self -)) getting warm and drying wet gear are just the ticket. Others buy just for a status symbol. For you it depends on you. Ranges are the same just difference between buying a one badge and another. Bit like cars really, would you buy a 4x4 because you need or you like the image or another reason.
For me, loved having an Aga, but alas none in current home and lifestyle has changed a bit so probably not so relevant anymore. I still miss it.
If you want one you can also cut costs buy buying a refurbishment, they are built like tanks and look great for years. However don't be buying if you are expecting economy (at least that was the case).
Have a seven year old range, stanley superstar, well worth the money, solid fuel, never even considered an aga. In fact no showroom discussed them.
Fab for heating rads/water and kitchen heat, cooking, airing clothes on the rack. Love the look of it, free standing with built out blocks covered in stone clad.
Have seen ranges built into the center of kitchen units and they dont stand out as a feature.
How does it work in the summer though, with a aga or similar?
Worked for someone with an aga but they also had a normal oven too for when it was too hot. I cooked on it a few times though and have to say they are great to cook with. You have to forget everything you know about cooking in traditional ovens and it takes a bit of trial and error but is worth it for that.
I think it depends on how much money you have, they're not really a money saving device.
Costs us €160 a month on oil, and there are constantly problems. Before our son was born in December we had the service man out 4 times, and each call out was 100 euros.