Go get a cup of coffee. This is going to be a long post.
Before we get too far hijacked, I wish to ditto the answers to your questions. I will venture to answer the question everyone missed, #3.
A few things to consider. One was mentioned. Do you want a "toy" or do you want a "hobby grade" layout. Although similar they are completely different in quality and detail. I too have both as Southern. I do not bring the "toys" out to the layout with an regularity. They were basically purchased for the grandson when he was younger. They have served their purpose and are now put away for his son, whenever that will happen, as he is only 14 now.
Let me start at what should be your beginning. You have decided on HO. My choice too. One can lay plenty of track in that scale to make things interesting.
As far as a layout, I would suggest an L-shape in the beginning. Make each leg 30" deep. This allows for 24" radius for the corners. A must for some engines and cars. I would also allow for a small yard to store unused stock right on the table. You may also use the scrap pieces of plywood , homasote, foam board or whatever you use as a table for some interesting diversions, such as your yard.
Also pick a road, a railroad that is. Model it. I am fortunate in having a plethera of different roads running through the area when growing up. Monon, Nickel Plate, C&O, Pennsylvania, New York Central, Wabash so I have some of each on my layout. NS is the big name now and when we change to the more modern layout , by exchanging modules, we run the more modern engines.
Also when you pick your road, pick your era. Our layout is basically the "Golden Era of Steam" up through the "Transition Era" which includes the early diesels. I love watching the connecting rods moving as steam engines are my favorite. More moving parts means more maintenance,. Something to remember. Maintenance should be a regular part of "playing with the trains".
Good starter sets are many. There are some that are of higher quality, and priced accordingly, than others. Some of the "nicer" kits would include Atlas Gold or Silver Series, Bachman's Spectrum, Life Like's Proto 1000 and 2000. Next step down would be Bachman (the grandson's beginner set compliments of my Dad) Atlas and Athearn. Toy quality would include Life Like, Tyco, and Model Power, as well as some others. There are sets for almost every pocketbook and taste.
If you are looking for all of the sounds, lights whistles and bells, you are looking at probably starting out with DCC, digital command control. Not a bad idea at all. Don't be alarmed it's not that intimidating. Many larger layouts, mine included, use it. Using DCC allows one to run multiple trains, MU consists(double, triple or even adding a fourth to a line of cars) without having a degree in electrical engineering. It's as simple as programming the decoder. Just follow the directions.
In the "old days" we would block our layouts, wire them in sections that could be turned on, off, or reversed. DCC made all of that archaic and mundane. Unfortunately for me, my layout is blocked as I made the jump to DCC in the middle of construction after it became somewhat more affordable. Still it is not cheap. DCC engines, while rather expensive, some costing well over $500, are becoming more affordable and numerous. Converting older engines is not hard and these can be used versus the more expensive ones.
As far as buying good equipment....Ebay is my main source for used equipment. Walthers owns me when it comes to buying new for the most part. I do buy new on Ebay, but I would advise adding in the shipping fees into the total before you bid. What may seem like a good deal can be destroyed by shipping costs. One can also find deals on Craigslist or Kijiji. Attend train shows. Many a deal there. But remember Caveat Emptor, buyer beware.
I would also recommend subscribing to a good hobby magazine. Model Railroader is one that I would suggest. Many how-tos and articles for the beginner, novice and expert.
Any more questions will be answered if possible.
hwell:
