Well just have a look at the Spring Engine (where I am making A MOD for) and its source code to get an idea of what efforts you'd have to face (you'll find some info and links HERE).

Imo as "non-major programmer" you pretty much have to trash the idea of creating a RTS game all by yourself. All this client/server system, keeping everything synched and some of the most complex pathfinding routines of all games will take you down otherwise...

Enjoy your meal
Toast