I'm pushing 7 years into this hobby. I started out with completely NO KNOWLEDGE on how to fix anything. I'm still not great on electrical issues but you have to learn as you go. heck, I'd never soldered anything in my life but I bought a soldering iron and watched a bunch of videos on how to solder stuff. I learned a new skill and that was cool.

This community is very helpful when you run into troubleshooting issues.

Also very helpful is finding other pinheads. Though I do not get together with people very often, pinball is a great medium for meeting new people. Guess what? Those folks likely know how to fix things you don't and can also be very helpful for teaching you the ropes on pinball maintenance.

I also agree that it is hard to own only 4 games. That sounds like a lot and it is in certain ways but I would be hard pressed to get down to 4 though I've considered it more than once.

If you're using your basement and if it is not a walk-out basement, invest in an Escalera stair climbing dolly. That is some of the best money you will spend! Sometimes you can buy them used (I did) but either way that is a strong recommendation. (EDIT: I just noticed you DO have a walk-out basement...PERFECT!)

Last, don't be fearful of switching out games! The thrill of the chase is part of the fun of this hobby. Buy from some respectable folks and before you know it you will have people calling you with known great games that you might like. Doing multiple deals with people over time certainly makes the buying/selling process easier. Especially for your first few purchases, don't buy something that you cannot inspect first. Better yet, buy from someone who can help you set it up. Level it. Etc. If going somewhere to pick up a pin, look at it and play it. Don't be afraid to walk away if it is not what you were expecting.

I hope that helps.