As noted earlier this sounds like buyer's remorse and little to do with the stove. I guess I am confused about why the OP? With 7 years burning experience surely it was apparent that the Oslo was an E/W loader? I fail to find one question from the OP about owning an Oslo from another owner prior to this post. The short-comings pointed out are not universal, very few have issues with the ash pan door. Compared to some of the other stoves I've owned, the ash system on the Oslo is just fine. As a 2 cu ft heater, it needs to offer no apologies. It does it's job simply, efficiently and quite well. This is an easy stove to run and if you want it to get hot, it will do so willingly. However, if the house needed a 3 cu ft stove from the get go, it is not the stove's fault.
As for value offered, yes the stove is expensive now, especially when purchased peak season. The dollar has tanked vs the euro. Most everything from Europe has gone up in price and will likely continue to. However, for me value is determined by more than price. Aesthetically, it is a beautiful stove and with moderate care will continue to be one. That is demonstrated in its resale value. Traditionally a well kept Jotul holds its value very well. With the dollar devaluation, I sold my 2 yr old enameled Castine for more than I paid for it by selling in a hot demand market. That's pretty good value to me. The F400 wasn't perfect for my needs, but I still think it's a really nice stove and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to someone looking for a med. small stove.
