Mini Mal Advice - first board

Hi All
I have been surfing on and off for the last 4 years, but always renting boards.
I figure that rather than continue to waste money renting I should look for a board.
So I have 2 questions:
1/ Should I look new or second hand? Take into account I will be using the board probably 2-3 weeks a year, I am a relative beginner.
2/ Which shapers / manufacturers should I be looking at, and which ones should I avoid?
Cheers
I have been surfing on and off for the last 4 years, but always renting boards.
I figure that rather than continue to waste money renting I should look for a board.
So I have 2 questions:
1/ Should I look new or second hand? Take into account I will be using the board probably 2-3 weeks a year, I am a relative beginner.
2/ Which shapers / manufacturers should I be looking at, and which ones should I avoid?
Cheers