I agree with everything already stated here. Avistar select RTF was my trainer, and the shakedown was pretty good. Mine did require quite a few minor adjustments and reinforcements, but an EXCELLENT plane to learn on if you have an instructor. Because of the semi-symmetrical wing, you will actually have to learn to "fly" like an airplane really flies. When you pull out of a turn, you have to learn how to re-level the wing yourself, because I don't care what Hobbico says, this is no a self correcting airplane. But this is invaluable experience for when you move up to your second plane (most likely a mid-wing).
Another thing...when you balance the airplane, make it SLIGHTLY nose heavy (empty tank). You will not want want to attempt to make your first landing with a perfectly balanced or tail heavy airplane, as the plane can over-react if you give it a little too much flair on the landing, smacking the tail into the ground or pitching up and stalling 3' above the runway (BAD THING).
As an example, if I remember correctly, my Avistar manual stated that perfect balance was 3 5/8". You will want to go to 3 9/16" or 3 1/2" (this puts the balance 1/16" to 1/8" forward). This will also create better tracking in flight.
Another nice thing about the Avistar is that it can go a lot farther than your average "flat-bottom" trainer. I can make passes about 1' above the runway.......inverted. This plane has a lot of possibilities to learn. HAVE FUN!!!