I recently sold my Remington R1 at $75 less than I paid for it, took that money, and applied it to a new Colt 1991.
The Remington was nice - my first 1911.
The Colt is ... the real deal. Had I known what I know now, a new Colt 1991 for under $800 out the door would have been my first 1911. No question about it; that would be my advice to any friend who asked me about buying his or her first 1911.
Start with the Colt and it is unlikely that you will be disappointed. The Kimber, Ruger, Dan Wesson, Springfield, Rock Island, Tisas, Smith & Wesson, Sig Sauer, et al., can come later. Start off with the real deal.
My 2 cents worth, since you asked.