I went another direction when I learned Helicopters.
I started with Electric. I learned on an Ikarus Fun Piccolo. I would suggest that model if you go electric. The other electrics are good, but the Ikarus has a very good web forum and excellent websites from people who have them. Check the Ikarus web board and Paul Goelz website. The Fun Piccolo can be upgraded from a beginners model to a more intermediate level as you progress.
Much to everyone's disbelief, you can learn easily and quickly on a small electric helicopter. I did. But you need to know the limitations. You need a decent size area that is inside, not outside, for learning how to hover, etc. A two car garage is sufficient. Then put the training gear on and have at it. The Fun Piccolo can take the crashes. I have wrecked mine so many times (usually doing something stupid too) I can't count them. But most crashes cause no damage or very little damage. Also the Fun Piccolo is very easy to build and set up.
I learned nose in hover, forward flight, etc. on the Fun Piccolo. Because of that, I can fly my Century Hawk without problems. All with no instructor and no flight simulator.
Conclusion: If no flight instructor is available, I would suggest starting with a Fun Piccolo. However, if you have flight instruction, then jump into whatever you can afford. Just remember, with the nitro you need much ground support equipment, ie: starter, glow plug wound, wrench, etc. etc.