Ask here, find a Pinsider close.

Find a pinsider named B R.

He is within driving distance. Buys and sells 100 machines a year (est) and always has fair prices on quality games

Add a location to your Id so people know where you are.

Other than buying from a reputable pinsider I would learn how to troubleshoot and run the self test modes yourself and then check Craigslist constantly. I mean CONSTANTLY. In my area if a good deal goes up the seller could get multiple calls within mere minutes. I have contacted sellers within ten minutes of a post, never heard back, and then an hour later post is deleted due to being sold. If you have a smart phone there are apps that you can get that will check CL for you and alert you when any key words (like pinball) pop up.

Also be patient. Unfortunately pinballs aren't sold at the mall and you may have to wait weeks or even months for the perfect one to come around.

I honestly believe if you pay attention here you can get everything. prices won't be steals. They'll be fair, from people you can trust.

And IMO really for your first pin that's what you're looking for. I love a nice roughed up game that i can tear down and fix back up, but for my first I needed something that was ready to play wiht no issues. Then you can slowly learn what you need to.

Really good deals on craigslist usually get flagged once the buyer contacts the seller. It's a dirty tactic that way nobody else can have a shot at getting in touch. Best to buy from someone reputable on here that will give you full disclosure on their machine. Sometimes saving some money could end up costing you more down the road. Good luck on your search.

take your time

Doc's got it right, stick with this group and let people know what you are looking for and somebody will know somebody! GL

+1 Took me 6 months for me to get my first pin.

Agree 100%. If you're unsure about, well, just about anything pinball related, trust the Pinside community. You'd be hard-pressed to find a more helpful group of people.

There are a ton of pinheads in the DC area. Check out FSPA and connect with guys there. I have some good friends in the area if you want me to hook you up with a local that could steer you in the right direction. Drop me a PM.