BE-40

You don't need to know how to fly planes to learn helis. The sim helps a ton and will save you money by the ton. You can learn everything on it. You do however need room to fly one. Hovering doesn't take much, but flying around takes a lot if you want to get good. I fly in the back yard very little, but I wouldn't suggest it if you live in a neighborhood. It can get away from you fast and go through someones house, window or car, or hit someone and kill them.

Make sure you are somewhere safe.

The 9CHP is a great choice. Lots of heli choices. Don't over look the raptors. They are really good helis. heliproz.com is a great source for helis and radios. They have always had the best prices for me. I use them pretty much exclusively now.

Search here at RCU under beginner helicopter too. It will lead you to many discussions about good starting helis. The raptor is good because you can fly it stock, and then when you get better, throw some upgraded parts on it and it will keep up with just about anything on the market. Its a good first choice.