Like you, I am a beginner and started my guitar lesson here at GT!
I learned a lot! Instructor Chris is excellent! He explains even those very difficult section with ease. Particularly, I am referring to that section regarding "Intervals". Bottom line, learning guitar online is more than okay if you have the right site. And I say, Guitar Trick is the online site that is right!!!
Regarding buying a guitar, I hope this is not late for you to consider.
Ever heard of an acoustic/electric guitar! Yes, it does exist and that's what I have. Bought it online from www.HSN.com for $129.00 plus shipping of $15.00. Can't beat that. The guitar is from Esteban and it comes with 10 instructional DVDs. The first DVD will teach you the parts of the guitar, how to hold and how to tune it as well, plus a few guitar chords and exercises to keep you busy. The last 9 DVDs are either for intermediate or advance guitarists because they teach how to play solo popular songs.
Also included are the following: 10 watts amplifier to plug to your guitar, amplifier chord, extra set of strings, picks, hardcase for the guitar, strap, and more. As to the sound, oh boy, beautiful when you play it in acoustic and when you plug it to the amp to become electric, you will be impressed!
So, there you are, one guitar you can use as an acoustic or electric! Two for the price of one! It's also beautful. By the way, the one I bought is Esteban's black and silver anniversary edition.
Good luck and happy guitar playing!!!
P.S. Other brands of guitar you have to buy those added items separately and when you add them, it will cost you an arm and a leg!!