I think for the 2 post lifts the more high end ones are 5k euros, but you can get a good lift for 2-2.5k euros. Provided you have the minimal thickness and quality of concrete to bolt it to, otherwise you would need to go for a 4 post lift. As for height limits quickjacks are very popular now, but that means working on your back... You can also go old school and dig a service trench, that is what they do in my neighborhood, they buy 2 garages side by side, dig service trenches and open up shop. The funny thing is the 2 guys in my vicinity who did that came as highly recommended mechanics.