I didn't read all the responses, but I don't think anybody mentioned my reasons for liking ARF's. I've been building kits for 30 years, and I feel I do a good job at building, but I DON'T do a good job FINISHING. Thus I just started doing ARFS about a year ago, and I like the way they are finished. Many are fiberglass fuselages which look great. Unless you are an expert painter, or great at putting on heat shrink film, the ARFS just look better. Of course with a kit, you can always hire somebody to paint or finish it for you.

My 2c.

Bob