Hi Thomas
I very much agree with what you say on the cost of some ebikes.
Given that you'll want good power for hills too, that should limit your choice still further I'm afraid... but its best if you can try before you buy.
I've only limited experience of riding different ebikes, but I tried the Izip at 50cycles & was disappointed - admittedly the battery was low on charge, but the power didn't seem too good, the bike was very heavy with battery, but for me the hardest part was it was difficult to pedal for some reason - may be due to some oddity of that particular bike, but seems borne out by others' experience too.
If you don't want to pedal too much, or want to develop massive thigh muscles (!), it may be ok, but the Liv is a much better bike for the price difference, except I don't prefer the upright ride style of it, and could be a reason if 50cycles no longer stock the izip.
Cheaper bikes do look to be hit & miss, but if you find one, or a choice, which are recommended - especially for hills - then its up to you but it may be worth a try
As has been said here before though, many buy electric bikes
expecting help on hills to be a given, but they'll only help on steeper slopes if the motor & gearing is powerful enough, so best do your homework & ask around before choosing.
Best of luck in your bikehunt & hope you find the right bike for the right price
Stuart.