If I had to start anew, I'd start with a Squier Sonic Precision bass.
I'm a big Squier fan, I've owned half a dozen, but when the Sonic first came out, I had a hard time believing a $200 bass was even worth considering...until I actually played one.
Right now, I have five basses and don’t need another one, but if I see this hanging up anywhere, I'll jump on it.
Other than that, there's absolutely no reason not to buy a bargain bass and then buy something special later on.
I did.
Not to mention, you'll have plenty of money left over to buy a quality amp, and gig bag or case, etc.