If you like the camera just buy, what if you happen to buy the new 7d mark2 now....then next year come out mark3....then mark4.....
This will never end.....
Vivo city canon show room got sell the hood for 17-55. cost S$49.
If go cheap....size not fitting??....poor quality plastic??....
Better get the original and no need to worry....
Just get the best canon EF-S 17-55 for crop body, so you will not think of upgrading again.
Go rent it then you will know the difference. The best is try out yourself.
Your friend will not comment on the the picture in front of you....is his wife or relatives or his friends that will complain if the outcome of the pictures is not up to the standard.
FYI, crop dslr the best 17-55, you can rent it since you already spent so much