Hi Jerusha:

From experience, I can tell you a kit is much more expensive in the long run than to just purchase a good
ARF.

I choose to build because I get great satisfaction out of it. But as Machinegun said: it is time consuming and purchasing everything you need item by item is costly. I am currently building a plane with 53" wingspan. Will have about $600.00 to $700.00 in it when I'm through. Could purchase a similar ARF for about $400.00, including motor and servos. It's expensive to build.

I really appreciate seeing the desire to build in someone who is rather new to the sport. It's encouraging. You can find
many complete "Ready to Fly" planes on E-bay, this forum RC Universe or RCGroups. You could probably purchase
a plane to your liking in really good shape for about 1/3 the cost of a new one.

One other suggestion: Check with your local clubs, you might find a member that is ready to move up and
could purchase one that way. Could probably get to test fly it before you purchase.

Jerusha, it's no crime to be short on cash. Most of us in this hobby find ourselves that way from time to
time, so look for those bargains. They are out there, for sure.

Might find a fixer upper (needing a cover job, minor repairs, etc. for nearly nothing, if you are patient. That way you
get some "building experience" in the bargain.

Good Luck.

In God We Trust