Mitch,I was in your shoes 2 yrs ago. I has took me that long just to work up to 120 size planes. All these guy are right on target with their advice.Get plenty of time on your simulator and trainer. Read everything you can about how a plane flies. Build a few kits not arfs. Its good you built one, build a few more of different types. I just completed my G&L hobbies fiberglass kit , 120 size Extra 300 with a Zenoah g20 .I also have the Seagull 120 ultimate biplane. My next goal is a 28% somthing, not sure what its going to be though. Take baby steps in this hobby unless you are made of money and not married. Big planes = big bucks and very unhappy wives.