I am fairly new, too. I've only made 3 small quilts and am working on my 4th. if you have a desire to quilt, you can do it! Your basic sewing machine will work fine. Very few of us have the ideal sewing space . I would suggest you pick a small project with a simple pattern (like nine-patch or 4-patch) to find out if you like cutting and piecing. Then you can try your hand at quilting it. Is there a quilt store near you that you could take a beginner class? That's what I'm gonna do in September because I'm only self-taught and I think learning faster, better methods is what I need. Your dining room table will be okay for working on something small. I have made my 3 thus far (and starting 4th) on a basic, mechanical, Sears Kenmore machine and have been pleased. Naturally I covet bigger and better
You might consider making a kids' quilt for charity. It will be appreciated and kids are not critical inspectors. Relax and enjoy the process.