Quoted from isJ:Buy your first game in person would be my suggestion.
This and money exchanging hands is definitely the best way, if you decide to send money check out https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/how-to-not-get-ripped-off-in-pinball-vids-guide first.
I've bought a few pins from other side of the country (like many others), never had problems but there's always a chance things go wrong. Best to buy from reputable pinsiders if local purchase is not possible