Uber Pilot, if you are looking to learn on a 2 seat aerobatic a/c similar to the tutor or firefly, I would suggest learning on a Robin, BUT they do not have a VP prop, but fixed pitch.
I learnt fixed pitch first and found the transition to the tutor and the VP easy, although I know some people who didn't!
Off the top of my head I cannot think of any 2 seat trainers with VP other than the firefly and tutor. I don't know whether the other Grobs used at flying clubs had VP or are aerobatic. I know the cranwell flying club ones aren't aerobatic.
Also, how old are you? You could apply for a flying scholarship to help aid your training - such as from the Air League or GAPAN where you don't have to be an air cadet.
I guess the time limit is for currency reasons again.
Having done EFT also enables you to get a VP sign off for your PPL.