I've been playing guitar for more than 40 years, played professionally in the 70's (yup..long time ago) and was 100% self taught. Couldn't read a note, but learned songs by ear and by "fake books"...mostly by ear because I couldn't afford the books. Now I have 8 guitars Acoustic and electric
Here are some things I learned over the years:

-Your first guitar should be the best you can afford with good action.Which type depends on how you want to play...around the campfire, get an acoustic; in a band, get an electric.

-Check out Craigs list and ebay and get the best you can afford.
-A good balance is an acoustic/electric or hollow body, but a Fender strat will last a long time and is great to play.
-Use on line lessons as much as you can. I wish a site like this was available when I was learning. I've learned a lot in the month I've been a member.
-Supplement this with in person guitar lessons, after you have a baseline.
-Practice every day for a while to build up strength and callouses
-Learn the fundamentals; scales are important; Pentatonic great for Rock and Blues.
-Pick a song from this site for beginners and learn it all the way. It will give you confidence and build up your skills.
-Play along with someone more experienced who is patient and doesn't make you feel bad. Don't play along with someone who just wants to show you how good they are.....
-If you go the rock route, find a group of people who like the same music as you and see if you can sit in for a song or two when you get your skills up.

Lastly, learning guitar is one of the best things I ever did in my life. It brought me great joy, allowed me to play in front of thousands of people (and I was really shy at first) and continues to bring me satisfaction many, many years later.

I hope this is the start of something great for you.

Best of luck,

Paul