Melissajean, I am so sorry that the price range is too high and that your BF doesn't like the breed, but I guess Maltese are not for everyone. I will tell you this though, my hubby wasn't sure of the breed either, he thought our little furkids were prissy dogs designed for women to carry around like little toys. He now knows how wrong he was, he is the one who insists on carrying Scooby when we are out, he is the one who is best mates with our little dynamo kid.
I must tell you we paid $400 for Scooby, yes the breeder was just a local lady who just breeds for the love of her dogs, but she did do it properly, she isn't puppy mill, just a hobby breeder, and all her puppies are registered. I would always avoid a puppy that I had to have shipped from a distance because I would want to see the breeder's facilities to make sure all is up to standard.
Having said all of that, yes Maltese can be expensive to maintain, but we have been very fortunate that Scooby is healthy and strong so our costs are not as high as some who are unfortunate to have health issues with their furkids.
Perhaps later when you are in a better position you may be able to reconsider and you will find the right little puppy for you and your BF