Joe
I notice that you mentioned buying into a PA28 or 38. If you are learning on a 38, again you may wish to try the 28 before committing, as they have a very different feel, no doubt because one was designed as a slightly challenging trainer and the other as a low end tourer.
Depending on your needs, you might find the PA28 a little pedestrian [although I have to declare my own position and say that I prefer to the PA38.]
Depending on where you are located, there is also an outfit named Skysport, who operate our of Elstree and North Weald with Pups and a Bulldog [they usually advertise in Flyer/Pilot, and seem to offer shares] - might be worth a look, Pups are very good fun to fly.
Enjoy your flying and good luck with the rest of the course.