RE: best starter for the money
Welcome to RCU bassking,
Consider the Esky Lama V3-V4 or the fixed pitch Esky heli for a starters. The V3-4 helicopters are coax or "dual rotor" designs that are good for "in house" flight. The Esky FP (fixed pitch) heli is best suited for "in garage" flight and can be flown outdoors as long as there is NO wind. These helicopters come with LiPo batteries IIRC.
Also consider the following suggestions for new RC heli pilots;
1. SIM (Esky offers a SIM kit # EK2-0905A for about $20).
2. Setup (be sure to search the forums for preflight setup tips as this is critical for successful flight. Also consider training gear).
3. Practice (makes perfect as you well know from your RC vehicle experience).
4. Patience (give yourself time to learn).
Good luck and good flying!