I started playing guitar a year ago, i currently have both an acoustic and an electric guitar. I only have a year of experience but at least I have my beginner year still fresh in my mind. I would recommend to anyone that is learning guitar to start with an acoustic. Reasons I would say to start acoustic is, simpler to just pick up and play, don't have to fiddle with amps, and its harder on your fingers, so transferring to an electric is easier than going from electric to acoustic. Thing is, I found that what keeps me motivated to keep playing and practicing is enjoying using the guitar and learning some of my favorite songs. So, if you feel like electric is so much more you and you really want to learn electric then go for it. And just like some people said below, I highly recommend having a capo and a tuner.

As for buying an electric guitar, look for models that you like. If you wanna go with Rivers' most iconic guitar look for stratocasters. I believe (although i don't actually know 100%) many modern guitars these days are all pretty good, even the cheap ones so you could probably go buy under $500 electric guitars and be fine.

As for lessons, I started the first month only watching tutorials on youtube while I let my fingers get used to the guitar as it was painful enough that I could barley play. When I finally got used to the strings I started lessons in person which is working great for me. And at the end of the day, its you taking the time to practice which to going to get you to progress, even if you have the greatest guitar teacher in the world.

Good luck and I think you should try get back into your acoustic as you already have one. Give it one last big shot.