[Flying fisho]

If you read back in this post you will see mention of mode 1 being a more favourable transmitter. Although I think mixing mode 1 & 2 in buddy cord links is possible (dont rely on me for this, and I am sure I will be corrected if wrong) but certainly when you get past the buddy cord needs and want to have your instructor beside you to take over if needed, you will find mode 1 instructors available every flying day, not so frequent with mode 2. As for the model, our resident flying guru Gary learnt to fly on a T28 Trojan, but it certainly is not as forgiving as a high wing trainer and may take a little longer to overcome the common lack of confidence when starting to enhance the big learning curve in this hobby. As for the foamy comment, they are more robust than balsa models and easier to repair in the inevitable mishap. One of our motto's says, if you cant afford to fix a plane, you cant afford to fly one.
PS. I now have a spare mode 1 DX6i that I am willing to lend out at the field, which will give you extra time to finance your own.