I bought exactly the same set up 2 years ago and it is great, having put several hundred rounds through it and shot dozens of foxes, rabbits, hares, roe and munties. There will always be Howa-haters, but for the money they are very good. I also now have a T3, that is a much better rifle (in feel, loading etc) but it is much more money and they both shoot similar so as not to worry which is more accurate.
I used the kit scope for a couple of years and it was good. Most guides I went out with were surprised how good it was at last light. However, my T3 came with a S&B and that was the turning point in my scope collection, I realised how much better expensive glass was and how little I used the zoom (never!) so I upgraded to a s/h Swaro 8x50 fixed on the Howa. Then I changed the rail and rings for some bases and rings from Alan Rhone/Warne and saved 200g in weight.
The stocks get some criticism. But in my opinion as long as you know it is flimsy and don't press sideways on it/put your thumb on the barrel or generally do anything like that they are good. I will change it one day, but to be honest it is perfectly useable.
The mod is good. Does what it says on the tin and easily cleaned. Yes, there are smaller/lighter etc but these are perfectly adequate.
My only criticism is the magazine loading. I assume it is only my rifle, but I have taken it back to the gun shop and they said it was just me and I need to be a bit more forceful. I have since met a few Howa users with the mag conversion and they say the same - fine when done normally/with force, but when trying to load quitely or carefully it does not always pick up a round.
Despite all the above, if you want a new rifle without hassle and straight away I would not hesitate. If you are happy secondhand, for the money you may get a Tikka and S&B fixed, but you will have to look to find one.