your on the right track!
however you really shouldn't be afraid to create higher Polygon models... ive noticed you do alot of low poly models.... and i feel its hindering your growth.
Trust me... creating Nice looking low poly models becomes alot easier when you know how to create good looking High poly models
other then that id say you just need to study textures and more complex materials...
its not gonna be an easy path... but it is a very fulfilling path. good Luck!