How do I make my first purchase of cryptocurrency? I'd like to get started in cryptocurrency.  Be it Bitcoin, Dogecoin or something else.
I'd like to keep my own wallet and not use a Coinbase type of service.
How do I start?  Who would I send money to?  And how do I know what I get is of real value?
Download and install Bitcoin Core: https://bitcoin.org/en/bitcoin-core/
Create a wallet and receiving address there (it's better to use encryption when creating wallet).
Buy bitcoin on any available BTC exchange (Coinbase, Binance, etc.).


I'd like to keep my own wallet and not use a Coinbase type of service.

You can keep your wallet on your own, but to buy BTC, you will need to use service or find a person who wants to sell you ones.