After thinking it over I'm leaning a bit towards the ARF kits. Chances are my first plane is going to take more than one digger. I think It would "hurt" less if I wrecked a plane that I just bought instead of a plane that I've spent hours and hours building. Does this make sence?
I understand your thinking, but I still believe you should still consider building the Sig Kadet LT-25. If you buy an ARF, when you crash it you will have to either buy a replacement wing or fuselage or replace the whole airframe. When you crash your Sig Kadet LT-25, you will already know how you put it together the first time and you will have your building instructions and plans that you used initially. You will be able to repair the crash damage instead of simply shelling out for a whole new airframe.
You already have an engine you can use that is a perfect fit for the kit. The Sig Kadet LT-25 kit is a very, very easy kit to build and an ideal first building project. The parts are laser-cut and the building is fairly simple.
Trust me when I say this to you: I started out on ARFs two years ago, and my first glow plane was a Nexstar RTF. I wish I had the opportunity to start like you do with the Sig Kadet LT-25. I had to buy a whole new airframe when my Nexstar went down even though it only suffered light damage. I didn't know anything about building so I had to open up the wallet.
If you buy an ARF/RTF airplane, you will be able to start flying with less hassle and maybe sooner than if you build your trainer. Building your trainer, however, will give you a three-year head start in this hobby. If I were you, honest to God, I'd build the Sig Kadet LT-25.