It depends on what you want out of this new plane. I enjoy building as much as flying. I have also invested a small amount of money in tools to help me do this. You will also need a large flat area to build your wing/fuselage. Reasons to buy an ARF can be that that you prefer to just get out and fly, do not have the time to build or as it is sometimes the case find it cheaper to by an ARF than a kit. This is only a decision that you can make. I always tell people that if you build the plane then you will more likely have the knowledge and tools to put it back together when you crash (It will happen, especially if you are new to the hobby []) If you fly with a club then there are usually plenty of people that are willing to help you out with the knowledge to get you started. There are even those that will let you build at there home providing you with the tools and a place you need to get the plane built while teaching you tips and tricks that make building easier. Allot of the times when you buy a kit the instructions give you a list of tools you will need to get you started. Have fun.

Brett