it's a good thing you found out about the other guy before you gave him any money. i admit i don't know anything about the conversion process but the fact you had to pay for so much of it seemed kind of hinky. i mean, i imagine some money has to change hands somewhere at some point, but it seemed like he was asking for kind of a lot.

anyway! sounds like you found an honest rabbi to help you. which is cool. and i second his idea about saving up to visit israel someday - it's an amazing experience and i think it would help you feel really connected to your faith.