$14.95 a month mate. You can download EQ and the next two expacs I believe for free and play a trial for 30 days.
As for items paid for with rl $$$, thats a bit of a back door subject. It is against SOE's policy but it happens quite alot. Some folks are all for it, some dead set against. I see no reason whatsoever to do it. The game is very enjoyable playing the natural progression. All good things come to those who wait.
It is a great game, but be warned, it is highly addictive, hence the nickname....Evercrack.
Bookmarks