One of the most important things to consider when buying your first guitar is how well it plays. I have heard parents say they are looking for a cheap guitar for their kid to learn on and that is the worst thing you can do. That is not saying that you can’t get a low priced guitar that does not play well because nowadays you can but do not just run out and buy one just because it’s cheap.
It takes time and practice to develop finger strength and calluses on your fingertips and if the action on your guitar is bad it will hurt your fingers a lot faster which means you will play less and possibly lose interest.
Action on your guitar refers to how low the strings are to the fretboard without out buzzing on other frets when the strings are pressed. If the strings are hard to press too hard to press down then they are too high if they are press and down and the notes are muffled they are too low. You want the lowest possible strings you can get.
If you don’t know how to play or know someone who can have the sales person play each note on the guitar on a clear channel not distorted and listen if each not rings true. You can also get feeler gauges and measure height but that gets a little more technical and can tell you if a guitar is in spec but if you buying from a reputable dealer they should lead you in the right direction. It’s just important that you know what you are looking for and are able to communicate it to them.
I was able to pick up a brand new Fender Starcaster guitar for $149 with amp and strap and I was amazed how well it played.
Finding the perfect sound on a budget is not so easy and it depends on personal preference. And that is a much larger topic.
One important tip I would like to share as a must have is strap locks if you are going to rock out and practice standing up. Staps come loose and if the front comes loose your guitar can land on the headstock and if you have a heavy guitar it’s neck can break. Until you get some do carry your guitar by its strap or depend on it to hold your guitar while playing.