Hi Troy;
Good to have you and it has already been said that this is a good list 
for questions and general info.  You can learn lots from others 
questions as well.
Being the voice of descent, I would hold off on spending to much cash 
until you get your ticket and are certain exactly what type of antenna 
system you have space for and how much willing help is in your area. 
There are lots of very good rigs roaming around used that are very 
accessible and let you get started modestly. You might look into a used 
ts570 or a new or used ts480.  If everything works out then time to open 
that wallet and help stimulate the economy.
Just my two cents.
-- 
richard