4535jacks, your route is strangely similar to my long term plan.
I initially got an NPPL(M) which I upgraded to an NPPL(SSEA) last year, I have a share in a PA28 and just last week sent off my LAPL(A) application. Following that I will do the PPL upgrade, Night rating and IR/R (by the way, any reason you are doing IMC vs IR/R?).
Following on my plan is to enjoy flying and see how the market goes, maybe do my CBIR along the way if it can work. Then if things pick up I'll use a mix of savings and a small loan to complete the remaining training.
It sounds like you have a good chunk of hours already, out of interest how many do you currently have?
Good luck with your plans, I will be keeping an eye on this to see the answers to your questions.