Welcome to APC, FullExposure. Small flights schools often have the cheapest way to a flight rating because they can operate any equipment they like, and all instruction is FAA certified at such schools because all instructors must take a renewal course every 24 months, plus have a reasonable pass rate. You will be fine working with a "local instructor". In addition, I recommend that you get a free 6 months subscription to AOPA Flight Training magazine and read each issue. With the 6 month subscription you also get access to AOPA online website, which will help answer standard questions you may have.