Start with a little research at first. The huge internet universe provides an easy access to telescope information in every detail. Read as many telescope reviews as you can, since not all the reviews are honest and professional. Browse some free online astronomy blogs.

The best way of increasing knowledge for buying a telescope is to join local amateur astronomy clubs in your area. Most clubs are free and will be happy to see you in their astronomy society.

• No need to walk on the same road twice. Many club members have telescopes and years of experience to share. What kind of telescope is the best? Telescope prices for each category? Best brands etc. You can ask to them.
  
• Well, hunt for the star observation night parties. Most members will bring their telescopes to there and you have a chance to examine different telescope varieties.
• There are people who rent telescopes for a night. It is also an alternative to spend much less money before the final decision.
  

First, it is vital to increase knowledge on sky. Can you find the well known galaxies such as Andromeda easily? Do you know constellations and their main nebulas?

It is best to buy an observation guide book that includes all descriptions and star maps for the beginner telescope user. Search Amazon, read reviews. There are lots of high quality books on deep sky observations.

Avoiding department stores is the best strategy. They usually don't sell high quality telescopes and you will be bored of looking to the moon all nights because your telescope will not show any other objects well :)

If a telescope is too hard to manage and do not have clear instructions, simply avoid it. Check telescope at first in the store. If the view is bad, most probably you will get worse at your home. Do not believe the exaggerated words about the telescope model thrown by the hungry seller.

Remember that magnification is not the best factor for seeing the most objects in the sky. Since weather greatly affects the view quality, no need to spend lots of money on super magnification powered telescopes.

Try to choose a telescope with large aperture. It will collect more light and you will be able to harder sky objects.

Medium eyepieces are enough. It is 1,25 inches and the eyepieces models in this range are usually affordable.

Do not afraid to spend large sums on the telescope if the features are really excellent. If you buy a cheap telescope, later you will not be satisfied for sure and want to change it.

Read my other articles about the basics of telescopes, types of telescopes etc. They will help you to understand telescopes in detail.