I got my first straight razor from the old Classifieds section (now Buy/Sell/Trade) and would recommend that route for anyone looking for their first straight razor. The members here tend to price their razors appropriately and the majority of those offered are shave ready.

I can also suggest that you try to find a member near you who is willing to act as a mentor. Not only will one of these gentlemen help you develop your technique, some may have extra kit that they can loan someone new to the hobby.