welcome back.

Im learning also, still putting together my trainer, so no practicle experience but....

a lot of people in here rave about the Hobico Avistar http://www.hobbico.com/airplanes/hcaa2015.html

Also in the Nov. issue of Model Airplane News they review the Megatech Nitro Capital Flyer, trainer with adjustable dihedral thru a changable wing brace, a 6 degree for training and a 0 degree fpr more advanced flying. Pretty cool idea that would let the plane grow with you. they give it a good rating.

good luck