>>5844848It's taken me over 100 models to get to my level but if I had someone teaching me, I'd say I could get here in less than 20 models.
As for investment? I'd say, minimum, $500 for decent brushes, paints, weathering tools, crafting tools, an airbrush and compressor if you go cheapo on the airbrush and compressor. Perhaps over $1000 for a set of good grade tools which will last you half a lifetime plus on-going paint and materials cost.
That may seem like a huge amount but do remember that people spend way more on other hobbies like; photography, golf, cycling, gym etc. Also it's just an estimate on the prices and quantity of stuff I have, so it's pretty much the equivalent of me pulling the number out my ass.
Also, as a disclaimer, I'm pretty pleb tier so take my words with that in mind.