A.Reinhart- I got back into the hobby a couple of years ago after many years in HO trains, Aurora race cars, etc in my childhood (60's-70's). My Dad had a couple of Lionel Tinplate sets that we took out around Christmas. When I decided (OK negotiated with the CEO), for a little space (4' X 8') to build a layout I kept it simple. I bought a bunch of used stuff on Ebay, post-war, MPC, and conventional modern, along with a good KW transformer. I went with tubular track and 5121, 5122 turnouts and block wiring for power and control. I've scratch built a couple of buildings and am learning a lot about ballasting track and landscaping. I can't tell you how much fun I'm having running trains again. I figure that this layout will come down one day after my kids are out of the house and I can build a larger layout with all the fancy control systems, etc. Who knows by then it might be all battery/ RC like your cars.
The point here is don't feel overwhelmed, just start simple and have fun. Ton's of great advice here and plenty of guys and gals who are happy to share their expertise.
Good luck- Bob
