Reddit reviews Flute 101: Mastering the Basics

Stick to the major brands to buy a flute (Yamaha, armstrong, etc), whether new or use. The good old Armstrong 104 is what I played on for years, have had maintained (since 1982 ish) and now my niece plays. Another really viable option is that your local music store usually has a rental program. In my area you can rent almost any student model instrument for pretty cheap, around $15-$20 a month. That way you can try it out without a huge investment.

IF you're not up for taking a few lessons, the Louke/George books are very good at helping fresh flute players learn. Again, my 7 year old niece is working through FLute 101 with occasional input from myself. http://www.amazon.com/Flute-101-Phyllis-Avidan-Louke/dp/1598062735/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452439614&sr=8-1&keywords=louke+avidan+flute+101

Flute 101 by Phyllis Avidan and Pat George. Also Rubank still ranks way up high.

https://www.amazon.com/Flute-101-Phyllis-Avidan-Louke/dp/1598062735

I'm in a similar boat to you right now (waiting for my first private lesson next week).

I'd suggest Flute 101 as a good jumping off point. The Rubank book is also good, but seems like it works more in conjunction with a dedicated teacher who can give you particular assignments.