I think I would choose something all metal like a Cessna 152, which to reduce cost could with care be left outside thus reducing the hangarage requirement. Also, spares and maintenance are easy: like the brakes which are standard Clevelands, metal structure is easy to repair with Cessna providing a good SRM . I know what you'll probably say next, 'but I can't do my own maintenance etc.'. Well, most small maintenance companies I know will allow you to 'help' out when it comes to ARCs etc and the annual fees are less.
And of course for now IMC, Night flying is possible unlike LAA machines.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY by the way how spark-plugs on the cake?