if you have the slightest uncertainty on how much you want to commit into heli:

buy the XTR reflex simulator. i think it's the most realistic thing out there. hopefully your computer can handle it as it has some pretty crazy graphics. resale on it is good too.

now if you are in for the real deal. the best micro class electric heli are going to be the trex XL or x400. it's probably going to cost around USD$600-800 to get everything (Tx*, Rx, gyro, Heli, Battery/Charger, motor, servos).

keep in mind micro heli are difficult to learn on in GENERAL compared to the large nitros. Going cheap on a heli this size is going to make learning difficult if not impossible.

i see that youre in whittier...that's local. i could help you set it up if you get one.