RE: Building vs Assembling [kits vs arf]
If you have the time to build - build. If you just enjoy flying, but can't, or have no spare time, buy an ARF or RTF, join a club and go flying. I started building gummiband models in 1934 and wouldn't have it any other way. I design and build but have assembled an ARF and a ARC which both flew well. They were almost as much work as building a kit. Do what makes you happy when you are at the flying field. Enjoy the company of other RCers and the wonder of flying model aircraft.