The challenge with purchasing a trainer on-line is that they're quite heavy, so shipping will be quite expensive. I might also beware a used trainer that I couldn't see and inspect. Some folks use their trainers a lot and take them to races so they're transporting them and using them on dirt and grass and surfaces that aren't level. They can take a lot of abuse.
I'm a fan of CycleOps. I know others on this forum prefer the Kurt Kinetic. Blackburn also makes a trainer that I see a lot at races. They're all slightly different, with different moving parts and a different power curve.
If you're new to riding, I'd say you probably can get away with just about any brand -- the subtle nuances that separate one brand from another won't be as obvious to you.
Hope this helps!
Lorri