I waited for a long time for the right used yak that would fit the majority of what I wanted to do and one that came with many extras that I would have had to spend money to add on. I'm a disabled vet so I am far from having the money even for some of the high end base models, like $1500 shy. I am not disappointed and got something really special for around the price point of the Avalon.
I still need stuff for it and have only had it out for one serious trip so far. (I need to get a better roof rack and some load assist stuff so I can go by myself if I choose to or at least not bother anyone I go with). I know where you are coming from and not sure I would by a yak for $5,000 plus even if I was "Bill Gates" rich.
Back to the Avalon though. I think it would be a great yak. The one thing that I think would be necessary for bigger lakes or the coast is either a rudder or a skeg. Here in Texas something to help it track and or buck the wind is all but mandatory. I tried all kinds of yaks last summer and ones without a rudder/skeg usually had poor performance even on ponds bigger than twenty acres or so if winds got over 5 mph. But you can save to add that or if your fairly handy you could build and add your own. Another thing is a good paddle, its your motor in the Avalon. Paddles are also way expensive these day too in my opinion but a light paddle with good stiff blades of carbon or wood reinforced glass would be the ticket. I have seen some in the $150.00 range. Again this is an item that can wait.