Here goes another $0.02

Agree that it is always good to have a trainer ready to go. I keep an old Kadet Senorita with .26 4-stroke around for relaxed flying and "flying-on-the-wing" practice from time-to-time. Plus, when you graduate from basic training, you can increase the throws on the control surfaces and learn basic aerobatics.

Also, I second that you need to get with a club. Helps to end up with equipment that is reasonably compatible with what the instructors are flying.

On the ARF vs Kit, there are as many answers as there are people. Factors that come into play are:
How long will it take the first time builder to complete a kit - I have personally seen cases where this ranged from less than 1 month to over 6 months!!
Another point to ponder is how attached will you be to the plane you have built? Again this ranges from "So, What?" to "I don't want to get a scratch on my creation". In this latter case, an ARF makes a good starter model with a kit built as a second plane after you learn the realities of the hobby.

I guess it really comes down to the fact that no two pwople are anywhere near identical in their outlook and abilities.

Take care,