welcome Tigersaw.

"Refurbished", "shopped", etc. - means different things to different people. Both should give you a clean, 100% working machine. Beyond that, it's a crapshoot as to what was actually done to the machine.

If you are going to go as deep as a ToM or TAF as your first machine (good for you!) - I'd really recommend you try to hook up with a local collector for some guidance and assistance. The TAF that you picture above - that "scuff" that maybe you could live with on the playfield - can mean the difference of hundreds and hundreds of dollars in the value of the machine. If you are buying a $1000 machine, a little wear typically won't hurt you much. On a high end machine, it will significantly impact the value. And what is "insignificant" wear to you as a new collector may very well be a "deal breaker" for someone who has been in the hobby awhile.

I generally try to get machines with good cosmetics, because I know I can fix or replace the electronics. Can't always do that with a playfield or backglass that is in bad shape.

But really, if you are going to spend $3-4k on your first machine, take your time. Ask around here for opinions. It's not uncommon for people to overpay when purchasing their first machine, and in the price range you are talking it becomes even more critical to make sure you know what you are getting. Good luck!