Welcome from NJ. I agree with the thrift store suggestions. There is another member her who is local to me who has built quite a stash from thrift stores/yardsales. Also see if you have a 'freecycle' area close to you.
I also agree with the suggestion to not build a stash. Your tastes will likely change over time and then where do you put it or what are you going to do with it. I buy for projects only. I do (usually) over-buy for each project and would then easily have a stash. Since I'm not really a scrappy quilter, I usually end up giving those chunks of fabric away unless they are large enough for me to do something small with. Just a suggestion and enjoy your new hobby!