Ham / Amateur Radio entry level radios...?

Yep. If you're area has a repeater, get a hand-held transceiver for fun on the go.

Some of the bigger rigs are tough in an apartment what with everyone griping about your antennas and all.

Depends on what you plan on operating. My first radio was a 2 meter handheld and I think that was a mistake. I hardly used my radio privileges until I got a HF radio that had 6 meter capability. When 6 meters opens then it is a thing of wonder.

Look at one of the HF mobile rigs with 6 and possibly 2m capability. I think the ICOM-706 series usually start at 400 used but antennas can all be built cheap. It will be so much more fun that VHF alone. Get your general license ASAP and get on the air.

check around and see if there is a ham radio club in your community. the old timers can give you a lot of tips. many clubs have stations so you can try your hand at various operating modes to see where you have the most interest. few hams work all modes and you can save considerable money by getting a rig that is suited to your actual needs.

Try asking on http://forums.qrz.com/index.php