For the sim road racing, have you validated the simulation back on the real track? Did you learn new skills that are applicable in the real world with real tires, etc., or did you pick up subtle bad habits that you had to unlearn?

It sounds like a much more space- and funds-efficient solution, but I can also see how it could potentially create bad habits.

It does sound like an outstandingly good idea to get pilot seat time for familiarity with controls, procedures, etc.!