Long-time flight instructor here. Just figured I'd chime in my two cents:

I always told my students if they flew once per week, expect the process to take 6-8 months minimum. If you increase that to twice per week, you're looking at 3-4 months. If you really step it up to 3-4x per week (or go to an accelerated school) I'd estimate about 2 months per rating/certificate. My experience shows that anything beyond 3-4x per week is not really helpful. In fact, many students get "burnt out" on rigorous schedules like that.

The southwestern US or Florida are your best options if you are looking at an accelerated school. But let me caution you - and I can not emphasize this enough - many of the accelerated schools simply teach the boxes that need to be checked. Many of the instructors lack "real-world" experience.

I would recommend you find a reputable "Local" flight school that follows a syllabus similar to what the accelerated schools do, except the schedule is more adjusted to your preferred frequency of training. Find an instructor that you connect with that's got experience. Learning to fly is incredibly expensive, so make sure you are getting your money's worth!

Agreed that it is best not to pay for training up front. Try and find a school that is "pay as you go" if you can. These leaves as many options open as possible. Understand that for some people they can finish their license very close to the minimum 40 hour mark, but this is actually quite rare. The average is more along the lines of 50-60 hours depending on ability and frequency of flying. Be prepared for this possibility (especially financially).

Lastly, understand that getting your PPL is truly a "License to Learn." It does NOT mean you are instantly qualified to fly to exotic places. Keep your study habits up, add an instrument rating, fly regularly, and understand and respect your limits. So many former clients thought that the day they earned their PPLs they were qualified to buy an expensive plane and launch off to the Bahamas... definitely not so! It takes time. You will get there, but don't be in a rush. Enjoy the journey!

Sorry to rant... just my opinion as a CFI and current 747 pilot! Feel free to PM me any specific questions.