Joyce ~

Good places to go for advice (and in-store training classes and demonstrations) are stores like SEARS and Home Depot.

Around Fathers Day - bargins can be found!

For the "occasional user" - the standard quality power tools are probably sufficient - you don't really need the Heavy Duty or Contractor Grade.
But - don't buy bargin-basement *cheap stuff*, either!

A 3/8" variable speed Power Drill is always handy. *Might* consider a "cordless" one - but they tend to always have a dead battery just when you want to drill *one or two* holes! If you go cordless - make SURE the battery is "detachable" and not built inside the handle!! (And don't charge it continuously, either - that ruins rechargable batteries.)

Saws? A SABRE saw is handy for cutting curved lines; while a Circular saw is good for cutting longer but straight lines.
And Blades - come in many flavors - discuss WHAT you are cutting and pick appropriate blades. Don't need Diamond-Tips; but don't buy the "cheapie" blades, either. (You get what you pay for with blades!)

Most chain stores put reasonably good corded saws on Sale for $19-50. If you go the Sears route - only buy the "Craftsman" line - a better warranty than the cheaper "Sears" brand of tools. For SAWS - I'd go corded rather than cord-LESS ~ heavy cutting (or many cuts) tend to run down the cordless saws rather quickly. And cordless Batteries are NOT a life-time item - they WILL wear out and need to be replaced.

Folding work tables? Come in *many* flavors! Cheap and *rikity* to Bigga Bucks! Stick to a name brand and look for a "sale". Be sure it has some various ways to HOLD things you're working on.

Nother Idea ~ Check with your neighbors -
Try to find a "reliable" one who migh *share* power tools. Buy something he/she doesn't have in exchange for *borrowing rights* back and forth.

**GOOD point by Richard >> *Practice* on scrap before you do it on the good stuff!!

And *WATCH* your finners!!
Power tools can *maime* in the blink of an eye IF you're not careful and cautious!!

Happie Remodeling!!