I agree with both bgisapk and homebrewer.

IF you wish to build, build. For some, that is 1/2 or more of the fun.

If you are considering an ARF, build a SPAD Debonair or BUHOR.
These are easier to build than an ARF, fly as well and are durable. You may even want to build a SPAD trainer and get a good 2nd plane kit (like a Tiger 2) to build.

There is no good reason to chose a balsa ARF over a SPAD trainer if you are using that plane as a tool to learn to fly.

Best of luck with whatever you chose!