I would never spend that much on a Betta unless I was breeding him. Pets are ment for pets and I think that handsome guy was made for breeding. Save a petstore fish. Goldfish are ALOT different from bettas so don't go by that. Although, my first betta lived for four years I don't think everyone has luck with fish. For a betta "beginner", I think it's hard for them to tell when a betta has a problem. Unless, you have done ALOT of research on diseases,food quality, water, ect I wouldn't invest $45 for a betta when it's your first time owning one unless your planning on breeding.