I have been a Sage customer for 20 plus years.  From Accpac to Simply to Sage. And despite new changes my requirements have always remained the same. 

I use the software to maintain purchase and other expense journals. 

That is all.
I have never made use of payroll, nor inventory, and most recently keeping track of GST is no longer required

However, what is important to me is the ability to  reconcile bank statements and construct my own accounts to a suitable format.

Recently, upgrades to a new computer and Windows 8.1, now present the possibility of purchasing new software,
but the price tag for Sage 50 is discouraging. 

Not sure if First Step 2015 may be an option. To this I want to add that the New Sage website with information on First Step is confusing. 

All you have to do is PDF a downloadable version of its features and what you can and can not do as it would have saved me this post.

Thanks.