Bigger is better, and today the norm is to start with 4 channels. If you go to the beginner's forum, there is a 'sticky' with a list of recommended planes to start with. I don't know much about electrics 'cause I fly glow planes, but I'd look for something similar to the Tower Trainer from Tower Hobbies. Inexpensive and is everything you could ask from a trainer plane. I'm sure people have made it brushless, and there is probably a brushless counterpart out there too.

Welcome to the hobby, it's loads of fun! I've wanted to do this since I was a kid, too, and just started this past summer. It's been a real trip, and has even led me to fly a full size Cessna!

Have fun...