Get to know the owner of your local hobby shop, especiallyif the lhs isn't far away. Most hobby shops can get things for the same price or cheaper then online stores, and you don't have to pay shipping. If it is out of stock, they can usually get things in in a few days.
lhs owners are also great sources of information. They know about the local racing and flying. They also have experience and own a few kits. Theres a good chance they take em out and drive them around or fly them to show you how they perform if he/she has the time.
My stance on lhs's is that I personally prefer dealing with a real person that you can talk to and joke around with then 18 inches of lifeless changing colors.
