That's true, just to start with glow powered planes you wouldn't spend less than $500.
But it worth every penny!
I just started 4 month ago and that's the hobby that brings you busy everyday of the year, if not flying in summer, building in the winter, fixing here and there, adjusting, improving. It's a hobby for those who like to overcome chalenges and to have the hands often durty but mind refreshed.

Nilo