Newbs need to be given something clear, obvious and interesting to do. I don't think level of mentoring or supports matters that much beyond some minimum that makes sure they have some idea of whats going on.
I don't think moving to some region to get an estate is very interesting. Newbs have no idea of what gold per week is normal, or of what the lords and regions are like. There are no interesting decisions to make.
Recruit a unit and go to front line is much better. Recruiting a unit has a lot of interesting decisions and things to learn, like eq quality, training, range, money. Following orders gives the newb a reason to read messages, learn message types, and move every turn. Moving to an estate 4-5 turns away... is just too long with no decisions other than "next destination".
