I am pretty new to all of this too. Ive been flying for about 3 months and still learning everyday. Ive progressed quickly with a stable of 3 +1 lost in action.

IT IS VERY VERY IMPORTANT for you to find someone to help you for the first few flights. I would say, no matter how far, get an instructor for the first 10 flights. Even if they are just watching you after the 3rd or 4th. It looks much easier than it really is. Even if you intend to do a full throttle lift off and then land....will you be ready to react to a wind gust that might slam the plane down even if its a few feet of the ground? Doubt it.

Save the money...find an instructor. Perhaps post a "post" with...." "-Your town - instructor needed." Perhaps someone will see and respond.