My husband decided to go gluten free several years ago for health issues - he began to feel better immediately and is doing so well that he can now eat gluten foods occasionally with no ill effects. I thought it would be much harder to cut gluten. As to sweets, I go with the mixes. Even though they're pricey, they turn out cheaper than buying several types of gluten free flour to make your own. Betty Crocker has good brownies. Also, I make Crepes with Pamela's Baking Mix, and fill them with fresh berries. They're delicious and not really that bad for you!
Just a note - GF bread just sucks. There's really no way around it.
Good luck!