definetly need a budget...
after you both check out the rules a time or two, my suggestion is to attend a race. You will be able to see all the different cars on the track and up close and talk to anyone that has the time. And most people are willing to chat about their car, it's one of the reasons we are there. it's also a social event...
then read the rules another time or two, they'll make more sense now.
then it's time to figure so somethings out... just remember to figure in cost of upkeep, consumables, entry fees and getting to the races not to mention an extra bubble for crash damage. o and don't strain your budget, the unforeseeable will happen! better to race a 10K car then look at a 20K car and wish you were out there...
think it out, don't rush into anything and do not try to win your first race lol just aim to finish for the first few...
btw what race school did you go to?
o and attending an SCCA school can help you get to know people not to mention you can learn a new track...
that's my two cents... and change
o and read every post in first gear and every other you have time to you will learn alot that way too...
okay i'm done i promise!!