That's great! That's pretty much how I started out in the business. I purchased 4 SnackTime mechanical table top snack machines from an individual that I had found advertising in the Green Sheet (remember that? That, the Thrifty Nickle, and my local newspaper classified ads was all we had back then to find good used equipment for sale!). Over time, I gradually incorporated old but full size equipment to my route as the budget would allow. I had started the business around '95 and by 1997 I was financing brand new equipment from USI.
Nowadays, I purchase mostly used equipment from CL & Ebay. There are so many great deals and quality machines offered that there's no need for me to buy anything new, unless I need something like a BevMax 4 or a specialty machine right away.
I'm enjoying your blog! Most of my vending friends are journey men in the business, so it's refreshing to read about your experiences, ambitions, business model, goals, and victories as a new company! Thank you and good fortune!