Their are distinct advantages when planning a model railroad based on a prototype. The most important steps to a successful layout design is extensive planning and exhaustive research. Operating style will also be a factor as well.
You will probably know after the first year with the overall success of the build. Ultimately, you will become more immersed in developing the layout as your confidence and skill set grows along with the world you create. Contentment with the layout follows once you are convinced with the subject matter.
When you get deep into the build and subsequent operation, you become more passionate about it than when you first started. When inspiration wanes (and it will), a little research or rail-fanning, on the railroad you are committed to, will stoke the flames of passion once again. Accept the problems you encounter and be relentless to overcome them. Failure is inevitable but always leads to victory and reward.
This is why research is so important. The key is to focus on the spirit of the railroad over the entirety of it. Accept the railroad as you encounter it. Accept the fact that you must delete things to make things work in the world of model railroad compression. No layout will ever be large enough, so get over it. Furthermore, build a story into your railroad which will compel you to keep writing the story as you return to the layout over-and-over-again.
Last but not least - be flexible and willing to apply "free-lanced" practice to your model railroad.
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