Fear of dead pivots is unfounded. The pivot bolts are stainless. It's usually the nylon washers that need replacing. I keep spare pivot bolts, over the last 3 years, I have not come across anyone needing new pivots.FS bikes have lot more things to go wrong and service. Creaks from worn pivot points is common problem especially when not service. Not show stopper but very annoying. Unless you really need a FS bike I'd go with HT.
If do need a FS then £3k is realistic starting point for one that will go the distance. For full on MTBing it is more like £4k.
http://www.pedelecs.co.uk/forum/threads/how-can-i-tighten-pivot-bolts-on-a-woosh-zephyr-b-and-why-is-it-loose-in-the-first-place.29703/