Fact is, it's your money.

Do what makes you happy but then again, some folks "pay in advance" and take a loan out for vacations and such and pay it off around tax time. I do that with my pins knowing they'll be paid off (if not mostly) by around that time anyway.

Other than that, I HIGHLY recommend dealing with Pinsiders as I've had nothing but great experiences here with them. eBay can be a headache unless you're dealing with actually pin resellers (see Little Shop of Games... Curly's a great guy and reputable!) but it's ultimately your crap shoot as it can be a miserable experience there as well.

You'll get a great feel for what you want and how the shots are through playing that but nothing adds up to the real thing, of course. Pinball Arcade has in part fueled the younger generation to collect games now.

Having full intention of paying it back within a short period of time says different and builds credit, regardless.

Try telling the government it's NOT THEIR money either since they spend ours like crazy.

Well said. Already done all that. Time for fun. Regardless, I wish the OP the best in his search. Being a newbie to collecting (not so much playing) can be overwhelming, but choosing the right avenues to find your game (especially here) is your best bet.