RE: When to progress
I think one of the greatest things about this hobby is that no matter how good you are, there is always something to improve on. I think that this statement can apply to someone taking first steps in hovering and to someone who is comfortable with hard 3d flying. The challange to improve is always there.
As for me, Im trying to work on landings nose-in and it seems like i'll be on it for quite some time !