I've instructed on the Nexstar and yes, I think it's a good starter plane. It's easy to see in the air with its large wingspan and very forgiving for those unexpected mistakes. The sim software it comes with does help out a lot, plus if you crash on the sim, no worries, just reset and take off again. In my honest opinion it does deserve a close look.

I was toying around on ebay the other day and they were on sell NIB for 350.00. Not a bad price as compared to 399.99 in some of the stores. Just a thought. Good luck with whatever you decide.