I'm in exactly the same boat. Started flying FW 6 years ago, helis 18 months ago. Now got 2 or 3 weeks left until I hopefully pass the CPL(H) - I owe banks money, I owe my parents money, I still have a car (thankfully) though I think it's mostly positive thinking that's keeping it running and legal...
The last week or so I've been emailing and talking to just about everyone I can find who might potentially be interested in hiring a pilot. With just a CPL (I can't afford either FI or an IR), it has to be one of the most humbling and demoralising experiences of my life. You try not to take rejection personally - indeed almost every response has been to the effect of 'try again in the future, and stay in touch' - but NLJ is right; determination is an absolute must!
Option A, CPL(H) only, high risk, chance of employment poor or nil
Option B, CPL(H) + FI rating, higher cost, low risk, lower returns
Option C, CPL(H) + IR, higher cost, high risk, higher returns
seems all too true!
Saying that, as soon as you start pulling collective, it all seems worthwhile!!
