I'm not aaron.. but, I thought I'd try to help..
If you have any existing equipment.. ie: radio electronics.. you may be better off buying a kit.. it is very valuable knowledge you obtain by assembling your own kit. The instruction manuals today are extremely easy to follow and helpful..
It does sound like you're concerned about cost (like everyone) so, I would suggest RTR.. the RTR kits have been doing really well as far as giving a good starting package.. then you can pick and choose upgrades you'd like to add.. The only drawback is if you break it you may not know how to fix it without the assembly knowledge.. but most cars are simple and there is always someone to help..
what kind of RTR kits have you been looking at? There is differences in them.. maybe if you post that it would help in someone giving you advice on the type of car that suits your needs... whether it's bashing or racing