Having studied in several schools with several teachers, and styles over the years I'd recommend that you visit each school in your area talk with the instructor, ask if you can observe a class, and make your decision based on which school/teacher you feel the most connection and comfortable with.
An excellent teacher in a martial art that you might not have considered previously can give you a lot more value than a mediocre teacher in a style that you consider to be prefect.
Things I would watch out for are contracts that require you to sign up for a given time, buy equipment, and so on, and a large number of injured students. Also be wary of schools that seem to use a lot of indoctrination, and promises of "secret" information. There ARE "secrets" out there, but this kind of school, and stuff can get seriously weird really fast, and without the experience to understand what's going on it can get difficult for a beginner.
Consider carefully what you want out of your devotion to martial development, and look for a teacher who can take you in that direction. Remember just because you study with someone even for years, doesn't mean you're obligated to stay with them for life.
I learned different things from each of my teachers, each one gave me lessons that took me on to my next stage. Eventually I did find a teacher who could teach me what I wanted, but it took years of gaining experience about the "martial marketplace" to know where to find him, and how to get the most out of the relationship, and be ready for his instruction.
So good luck to you!! Have a blast!
