I recently bought my first pin. I looked for a game that I had played that I knew I liked. I over paid ( and knew it going in) because I wanted something that was 100% functioning. I've fixed a couple minor things myself ( which felt great), but I know I have the 90 day warranty that I can fall back on if I need it.
Really it's taught me to be self reliant, and has been an amazing experience. Good news is you have found this site, which can be incredibly helpful and welcoming ( will be donating shortly, as soon as I can figure out how).
Pinball can really be an addiction however. Already looking for my second one, with planning for my third. With that said, it has been incredibly rewarding thus far. This is both from a playing perspective and a repair perspective (even though I'm still struggling to figure a few things out).
Unless you live in BFE, and even you'd be surprised, you'll find the most welcoming and open group of people around you to help you along your way. All in all this has been a fantastic endeavor, and I hope you find the same.
As others have suggested, I would recommend playing before you buy. There inebitAbly will be leagues around you, laundry mats, etc. that will have pins that will pull you in. Whether those are 70's, 80's, 90's or if it's NIB. Find something that you think will interest you and make the jump, you won't regret it. If that pin isn't your end all be all, sell/trade it and move on...there's always another pin around the corner.