...

This is a Great starter layout with a lot of potential in a small space - and yes, while it may be a bear to cut the particle board with a handsaw, it CAN be done [and accurately, too!].   Perhaps the outlook concerning stock is a little bright, but $140 for Motive power + rolling stock is generous enough!

The only thing I'd do differently is perhaps using 2" of foam in place of the particle board.  This would allow deeper topography such as bridges and rivers. 

Great plan

I love layouts that use one 4 x 8 board in an interesting way, it's just so cool.

Lots of operation make this layout have endless 'play' value. Well done.

Ken