I would build a kit...cause that's all I do.

Building teaches you more than you can learn assembling an ARF, and also puts you well above the average "hands on" abilities. You learn to measure, align, eyeball, modify, improvise, be patient, develop skills, etc...

I like building my kits while listening to the radio, drinking beer , relaxing, filling the air with balsa dust..no one to bother you. You can't go no better. Besides..you know the plane inside and out so it's easier to fix/rebuild when you stuff it.

ARFs are too easy for me. It would be equivalent to me still flying my trainer...no challenge.

But most importantly do whatever you want. It's YOUR hobby.