I started with a Nexstar Spent about an hour a day for a month on the SIM. When I got the actual plane in the air, it was a whole new ballgame. The SIM will teach you the basics like take-off, landing, and orientation, but the real thing is way different. If I had done it without an experienced pilot on the other end of a buddy cable, I would have had a crash for sure. I did solo after about 10 flights, and now feel comfortable after a whole summer of flights. I'm now building a low wing plane which will be another first, and I will have my friend on the other end of the buddy cable until I get used to it. Basically what I'm saying is, if at all possible, find some help! Or, you can go through a few planes. That will work but can get costly.
Good luck Bob