I have learnt this year after dithering around for a couple of years (a bit like George, but for different reasons) because I wanted to save the money up to be able to buy the kit as soon as I'd been passed by the school. Trouble is there's always something else that the money gets spent on.
In the end, I thought it's now or never, (I'm 57,) I d find the money somehow and at worst I'd have had great fun just doing the course on the school kit.
So my advice and I've seen others give similar.
1. Don't wait, sign up now and start learning
2. DO NOT BUY ANYTHING, YET.even if you had the money, start learning and listen to as many pilots and instructors as possible and read everything available. Be prepared to be confused to start with- everyone thinks their kit is best whether they're in the trade or just own it. In the end you will be able to make an informed decision on your own
For info , I bought secondhand , but pretty new, none the less, and I spent about £5500, £3000 on the paramotor, £1200 on the wing, £900 on the training.the rest on bits and pieces. I dare say you could get away for £1000 or £1500 cheaper and you could spend £10k without blinking if you bought all new.
I'm guessing at running costs , but if you flew an hour a week every week you might use around 300lts , and say £300 on insurance and a bit of motor servicing and wing inspection.
Get signed up and start learning, it is just the best buzz!
Patrick