I've got a homebuild- like from a bag of spokes but that's hardly necessary, I just like building wheels- I used an Ican CX Wide frame, allows for a 40c tire (a little snug, rear needs to be deflated to install) and a Lauf TR29 fork. I had the carbon fork for a ride, went okay, but the Lauf just makes it smoother.
Yes, they are expensive. You can find them used, not everyone loves the Lauf.
There's a new model, the Grit, that has 35mm travel instead of the TR's 65. The intent is gravel, potholes, etc, not roots and rocks.