I'd like to make one more suggestion. If you haven't already done it, find the closest local club and spend some time at the field. Get to know some of the guys, and hopefully your future instructor.

You'll have a HUGE leg up when you do buy that trainer because you'll already know the type of radio equipment the instructor uses, what type of engines people are use to (and can easily help you with), AND their preferences for trainers. That's not to say you can't buy something they're not familiar with, but it can make things a lot easier if you do.

You may find that they'll have a club trainer that you can learn on, so you can buy a "second" plane right away, and save yourself about $150. There's also the possibility that someone will have a perfectly good used trainer that's ready to go for a huge savings. (I recently helped a 15 year old who wanted to start learning find a trainer with engine and radio equipment for $150. It was in great condition, and the guy even threw in a couple spare glow plugs and props. )

There are a lot of options, so while it's hard to be patient, "chew slow, and spit accurate".
Dennis-