RE: New Builder
There are MANY scale aircraft out there you can "start" with.
For a nice flying plane that is also a good intro to scale, I would suggest either a Piper Cub or Cessna Bird Dog.
Either plane can be detailed to what ever level you desire with available kits/parts or you can scratch build your details/components.
The level of detailing is a matter of personal preference, hovever, be advised that detailing a plane often times involves MANY times the hours needed to build and cover it.