You can learn on your own but it is not recomended. The problem being safety for one and if you have a crash soon into it you may get discouraged and lose interest. If you can't find someone to help then I agree with the former comment on getting a good simulator that will hook up to your transmitter so you can at least get a good feel for it. I am sure everyone will agree that taking the plane off is relatively easy. It's getting it back down in one piece thats the hard part. You must have a club in your area, go there and don't be afraid to ask for help. As far as your first investment you may be able to find a good used trainer, but be carefull as you don't really know what your looking for get advice even if you have to use this site. Your insurance is a very important factor. In the US you have AMA and in Canada we have MAAC. The size of the plane as you mentioned before does not matter (up to the allowed weight ) your premmium is the same depending on age. I strongly urge you to get this insurance before you turn a prop. I hope ypu can find someone there and if you do I'll bet he /she does'nt hesitate to help. Good luck!!! my 2 cents.