Not all FBO's are bad. If you want quality instruction at a personable level and dont want to spend more than you need to then a local FBO with a good reputation is the right choice. I looked at many of the pilot factories and I must say I am glad I followed my gut to stick with my local flight school here in New England! In about a year and a half I went from private to cfII and spent much less than the big schools. My training was top notch in challenging weather and I would put my skills up against any. And with the regional mins as low as they are you can forget about the bridge programs. Just earn your ratings and spend some time instructing to learn more about yourself and build quality time. I have flown with a few of the products of the quicky flight schools and I must say that I wonder how they passed some of the checkrides.......I believe in quality over quantity.