In my limited experience, I have found that many CFIs are
timebuilders
in one form or other. Some are CFI'ing as an interim 'career' until
the airline job...some are working another job and CFIing to build
time to get an aviation job.

And what they have in common is this - they're not experienced enough
to get an airline job. That means they're not experienced enough to
teach instruments either. What you want is the guy who IS experienced
enough to get an airline job. Of course that costs more.

I must admit I did go to American Flyers with some skepticism; that
was dealt with the first day when it was obvious these guys were
serious and knowledgeable.

Unfortunately, you're not going to know if these guys were really
knowledgeable until a couple of years after you get done. That's when
you'll be the guy who launches into the clag solo, in a single or light
twin, and actually goes places - while the rest of the airport wonders
how you can fly in that weather. That's what having good training buys
you.

Of course if you're the one on the ground, and other people are
launching into the clag - well, then you'll know something too.

Michael