13M:
Sounds like you're on your way. Be sure and price out your stuff before you start to make sure you can cover the cost. Don't forget to buy trains! Also, allow for some wiring, glue, and other misc "stuff".
TC:
Great layout work. You're right about the second layout being more complex, but 13M could always leave some of the turnouts out and add them later as his skill, dollars and ambition grow. The ends can be handled wither way, tunnels vs. open. Just a matter of preference.
Regards,
Ted