I like Piper_Chucks post about the cost of a simple 4 channel radio. I built my first kit a Balsa USA Stick 40 and used a Hitec Laser 4. Three years ago it was only $119.00 just a few dollars more than a flight pack. It did offer EPA on channels 1&2. Using a 4 channel will teach you how to set up the servo linkage properly. For my second and later models I got a 6xa and use it to buddy box my trainer for others to try. My kids and brother have all made many flights that way.
On the subject of ARF vs Kit consider the tools needed ,hobby knife,CA glue,epoxy,T pins,heat gun,covering iron and building board. I find that I need the same supplies to assemble ARF's as I do to build kits except for the building board. So you will need to buy the stuff anyway.