Buy a share in a good syndicate, go flying with the other pilots. That way you'll probably get well beyond 20 hours on the same money, and do a lot more than just local flying. If the budget is limited, something cheap - lots of hours in a cheap aeroplane trump few hours in an expensive rental, and if you are part owner, you'll get to know it much better, which makes you (in my opinion) a better pilot.
Personally I look to practice at-least a couple of circuits, couple of stalls and a PFL every month - otherwise I just don't feel current. Also I make a point of varying the circuits - flapless, powered, idle, constant aspect...
Use an aeroplane as god intended, and you'll land away much more than every 6 months! If money is limited, share it with other people in the syndicate. You'll still learn a lot and sharpen your skills, even if you can only log half the flying each.
And join the LAA (which may well be the best place to look for a share anyhow).
G