[honorious]

My advice is to chat with previous and current students to get a feeling on how it is to work with that professor. In this way, you get a view of their experience.

Is the PhD in the US, Europe, or somewhere else?

As for government funded: you also get a monthly stipend, right? How long is the PhD in your country?

[panjaro]

Not sure about the stipend. The PhD is typically 4 years.

[jayd77]

Why not go for a part-time Phd and continue working. Might be a hassle for 5 years but you get the financial security for your family and follow your dream.