Some more specifics that I didn't go into and someone just posted a new thread yesterday worth a read:
https://www.rctech.net/forum/chat-lounge/1118262-death-tower-hobbies.html
There are only 5 states that do not collect sales tax, you can try finding a distributor located in one of these...
quoting for emphasis
some other threads that may come in handy:
How to glue tires
Maintenance Tips
How to setup steering
Tools for the Pit Table
Which surface radio system is the best? -- I currently run Fly Sky Noble NB4 (best balance between quality and budget)
Which servo is right for me...
Everyone has black Friday deals, another place to consider is
https://www.fiercercsolutions.com/
Contact Pete over there (tell him Bill sent you) and he'll get you squared away, he will often beat the Tower deals if you ask nicely, plus you can pretty much get everything you need on a single...
I would encourage you to check out the Reagan Park RC Race Track:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/TBiY48pWiheoZCZ18
I did the crawler thing for a while but lost interest after a year. I also got into drifting and lost interest after a year of that as well, same with just about every imaginable "basher...
Where do you plan to run it? That will help determine what class you want to go with.
1/10 On-road cars tend to be the least expensive with a budget in to $300-$500 range depending on quality of components.
1/8 Off-road buggies are very durable and will tend to be less expensive to maintain...