Wraith, you'll get plenty of replies on this and I would say Exeter Acres is right. It's tough when you start.

My two cents: if you are worried about the cost, find an instructor. They won't charge you (although you might have to join a club for a little $) and you will lower the chance of destroying that plane by quite a bit.

If you can't afford a trainer now, you won't be able to afford to replace that mid-star, and that will land you out of the hobby quickly.

Lots to learn from a good instructor, and hey, they might also have a trainer for you to start on.

Good luck!

Jon