[scottmurdock]

Well, joining this forum is a great way to go. Like you, I have only recently started collecting figures again (I had a huge collection as a kid). These guys will give some great advice and feedback for sure.
I agree with the comments above regarding rarity and value. If you are concerned with value, keep them MOC/NIB and try to stay away from "popular" characters such as Wolverine, Iron Man, and Spidey. These guys are released and re-released with seemingly every wave. Also, one could make the case that the toy market is unpredictable at best. Not too long ago we were clamoring for Toy Biz's 5" figures, then Legends hit and they were a dime a dozen.
If you want to collect for the sake of your kid having a fun, diverese set of toys. Then open them and stick to what you find at TRU, Wal Mart, Target, etc. and only buy the rarer more expensive items on ebay (Bullseye, Vision, Warpath, Red Skull, Archangel, etc.) if those are the characters you or your kid truly enjoy. I'd also suggest buying a lot (an ebay "lot", not "a lot") of loose figures online and starting there.