RC Helicopter can cost at around $100 to $500 depending on the type of wood used and how much detail was put to the model. if you are careful. Extremely careful. I put the blade holders on upside down but it seems to fly ok with them that way. When I get some extra money I'll buy new wood blades. RC Helicopters can fly as fast as 80mph and as high as 10000 - 12000 feet.
Gas RC Helicopters are however much cheaper to buy gas for and can stay up longer since the regular 2-stroke model engine gas can cost any where from $13 to $23 depending on the mixture. Practice turning the heli a little bit to the right and left. Get used to the perspective in real life. The sim experience only helps. Practice flying the heli out and back (tail in both ways) Practice a little side to side slow-flying. Full RC Helicopter guide at http://www.rchelicopterguide.info. The Bumblebee RC Helicopter is so small and hard wearing (G10 materials) meaning you will hardly ever have to buy spares reducing your costs!.
I think that the experience building your first RC Helicopter is extremely valuable. Especially after your first crash which will happen. Also. Turn the gyro gain channel on your tx as low as it can go. This will make you control that tail! Practice hovering inverted and flying around inverted. Do not let the helicopter hit you! This is a habit you definitely want to avoid.