I have only been flying 2 months. I started on an "ugly" trainer...... well, not too ugly. I also invested in a simulator.....G2 RealFlight. With the help of these "tools" I soloed on my second day. I didn't care what the plane looked like because I was so happy to be flying on my own. I have crashed my trainer 2x..... both because of an engine problem and inexperience in landing deadstick...both were easily fixable.... but, I have made about 50 flights on it no problem. In just a short period I have moved up to a Model Tech Magic and am working on flying a 4*40. Take your time with the trainer and it will make your experience much more enjoyable. Don't waste your money and get frustrated cause you bit off more than you could chew. Just my $0.02...... from experience..

Best of luck with whatever you decide!

Alex