Miken,
Buy and study books first. Books may be expensive, but far less than buying junk that you can't learn from and can't sell.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/048...lance&n=283155
is a good basic book.
See if there are museums in your area that have swords. If so, they will sometimes let you know about collectors in your area. Handle as many pieces as you can to give you a feel for what you may like and quality.
Get to know some of the established dealers on the internet, PM me and I will give you a list. It may not be appropriate to post their names here in the open forum, but these people, while not exactly giving you spine-tingling bargains, WILL be fair in pricing. As you learn more, you will be able to spot bargains in other places.
"Luck" is preparation and study meeting opportunity.
Best of luck in this fun hobby,
Bill