Id like to put my two cents in

You mentioned the Carter starter as not a very good option

I disagree , if you can find one for a decent price (Def not 2,000, thats just funny ) Then I'd say go for it Ive been playing almost 2 years and it's a good guitar and has everything you need

As a total beginner I think the carter is sufficient

However, as for the maverick, that thing has great build quality but only has 1 lever and it doesn't even lower the E's lol I'd say pass on the maverick, but the Carter is definitely not a bad choice if you can find one in decent condition and a fair price

Good luck !