From what I've seen (well bred) basenji puppies range from $900-$1500 depending on show quality. Like Krunzer said, puppies are cute but are A LOT of work. I've raised 2 basenjis and 2 goldens and while a lot of it is the same.. the basenjis seem to discover new ways to be mischievous that my goldens would never have dreamed of doing. Be prepared to replace many MANY things because odds are they will destroy them! Elliot isn't a climber but my last one was so even things high up on tables and counters were not safe from him. My current B is 10 months and going though the "I forgot every good behavior you taught me" phase. This includes trying to jump off the table at shows to play with the other dogs and the judge @______@.
Now that I've strayed away from the topic..
A BRAT, rescue or retired show dog might be the best fit for you! I know of several breeders who will sell their retired show dogs because they simply can't keep them all. Before I got my first B I looked into purchasing a finished champion to learn how to show dogs with but ended up with a puppy.