First of all, think hard about whether you really need a 4 seater. In reality, many people find it easier to rent on the few occasions they want to fly a bunch at a time. Two seaters offer you a wider range, are more affordable (leaving more money for fuel
) and are more manoeuvrable to boot.
Secondly, join the LAA as you'll have to anyway, make contact with your local Strut and cultivate the acquaintance of everyone you can with Permit a/c. There's a wealth of experience and knowledge to be had before you have to gain it all the hard way.
Thirdly, try reading threads such as this one
FLYER Forums ? View topic - Which permit aircraft???
and
FLYER Forums ? View topic - Buying an aircraft
and
FLYER Forums ? View topic - Considering owning a light aircraft...
Other threads on here, no doubt, but I remembered those threads first...and yonder can be found many active LAA members, possibly more than here (where there's a wider geographic base).
The important thing was already mentioned by a previous poster: decide on what you want to do.
I'd add, also: do you have hangarage available for a fabric-covered aeroplane if you get one? Do you have a LAA inspector lined up or will you be able to find one who knows about the sort of aeroplane you choose? The inspector is your friend, hopefully, but, moreso, mentor and God.
Also, your own experience may play a part. I see from other posts you have made that you are coming back in after a break, if I read it rightly. Getting recurrent might be the first priority while you consider your options.
Sorry to throw so many questions at you, but as you will see from those threads above, there are factors to be considered that could not only save you time, but also money.
And I hope you find the very right aeroplane and enjoy many, happy hours therein.