Welcome to the Forum, Sport, etc. You have just cost yourself A LOT of money and stress!!
But the times you get to the top of the mountain, memories with friends and family, the powder shots, adrenaline, and all else make it worth it.
Beginner is a relative word because some ride at a "beginner" level even if they have ridden for years, and others can ride at a fairly advanced level only after 1 season. It all depends on how aggressive you get and how well you get to know your sled.
My suggestion would be, that if you are renting even 1 or 2 times more this year that you rent something different and see what feels most natural to you.
Try a Cat 8 or M7 that will likely be in your price range, a dragon polaris, 800,700, or I would even throw in the 600 if you are an average size guy. I have 2 buddies that ride 2007 600HO RMK's and those things rip and are bullet proof like mentioned. So are the 7's. A Doo XP also and see what you like before you pony up the money.
Good Luck! If you zero in on a sled or brand there will be many to offer advice about tips n tricks and what to watch out for on which brands and models. Just ask!