I started using the RPG Maker as a child. I didn't know how to code back then so the RPG Maker was an easy entry to make a simple game without having to learn a coding language.
The commission fees from artists vary by a huge amount. You can find people making sex scene for maybe $25 in low quality and go up to several hundred dollars for semi-professional artworks. Also additional characters, complex clothes or backgrounds can cost extra. I'm usually in a price range of $40-$150 for CGs. With the more expensive artist obviously having a way higher quality than the cheapest artist.
That using several artists causes for different art style and that not always everything fits together is a sad but unavoidable fact. I don't employ people, I request each CG individualy. No artist is forced to stick with me or can promise me to give all his time for my requests, thus I have to stick with several artist and sometimes replace someone.
As long as the game gets funded by people during the development, I'll keep it available for free. Even once it's done. I'll probably give options to buy the game, similar to the pay what you want on itch, but I'll always keep the option for people to download it for free.
I was writing about the various patreons aspects but quickly realized that it'll only spark more arguments. I got your point and understand why you don't like patreon, but I'll stick with it for the time being.
I don't always feel motivated to work on the game, as it's just that, work. So I stay out of the maker for a day or two, but eventually get back to it when the motivation is back or a new idea is in my head and wants to be made. :D