Have you looked into WorldModels? They have the Zen line of airplane, also the TaiJai line, each one in different sizes, most come with installed retracts. Reasonably priced too, the Zen50, of which I happen to own one of, is priced at $220 for airframe, installed retracts, most hardware. I did switch out some as in the pull-pull systems, and clevis's etc.., but for under $250 you get a really nice flying plane with "Corvette like" performance. I power mine with an OS70 4-stroke, and have unchallenged vertical performance. Real nice combos to be had though.
The Smaragd is a very nice plane, and definately a contender for the top-spots, and I consider it a "high-end" plane, right up there with the "Hydeout" and other such planes, however I wouldnt recomend for a first pattern plane, unless money is not an issue. You'll be looking at $800 to start for just the airframe, if I'm not mistake here. If money is no object, go for it. Good luck, and have fun