Oh, depends on the trainer. Some high wingers with symmetrical airfoil, low or nearly non-existent dihedral and neutral incidence setup are definitely not beginner planes. Yes, where an instructor is available, best way to go. Otherwise, if one is persistent, they certainly learn a lot in how to repair. ARF stuff varies in repairability. Some rekit themselves quite easily with little hope of repair.
I don't consider planes an investment. Until experience is gained, better to consider first planes as indispensable. One will go through several planes. Then comes along one that is just a blast to fly. Even experienced fliers crash. Just don't have the heart to invest in a costly scale job due to the temporal nature of flight, but to each their own.