Shane, only you can decide if a 6-8 year old or a newly weaned grey is right for you. Regardless of what age a grey is there are always risks and rewards. There are no guarantees. Of course, you could always take the grey you choose to an avian vet for a wellness check up but that is always costly. As for whether $1,000 is too much, again that is up to you, in Washington State and Oregon State I am sure they are less expensive than say California or New York. What is a new life-long companion worth to you??? Good luck on your decision.