Check out Judy Rodman & her "Power, Path & Performance" method of vocal training. Judy has trained MANY of the stars that have come through Nashville as well as written, recorded, & produced many #1 hits. We (my family) had the opportunity through community theatre to meet Judy & learn about her technique. My wife taught piano & voice & w/Judy's support, used Judy's methods w/her own students. My son composed & recorded a couple of songs w/Judy for a movie sountrack & my daughter took formal lessons at her home in Nashville.
http://judyrodman.com/power-path-performance.htm
I know you said that you "weren't blessed with lots of money", but even her $99 set of CD's might be considered cheap if by using them you were able to expand your range & improve your already good voice. She also has a single CD for $19 which might be enough to increase your confidence.
My daughter's considerable talent was improved markedly under Judy's tutelage & she has had several "leading lady" roles in musical theatre. She is no longer doing musical theatre, but her vocal "chops" are still incredible to all who hear her sing.
Recording your own voice, singing in a choir, & practicing are all great, but if you are "doing it wrong" when it comes to singing (breath, posture, etc.) you won't get as good or as comfortable as you could.
[I am not Judy's agent, manager, financier, etc. - I just know that she KNOWS what makes vocals SING!]