I'm trying to get a home game going and it feels like a poker table would be the best bet to "up my game".

However, as it's not an established group yet, I'm wary of dumping in tons of $$$ for a good table.

How did you guys get your first good table?

Also, any recommendations for a solid top table with folding legs for 10 people? Prefer no cup holders - they all seem junky on cheaper tables, and prefer no racetrack - don't want my cards shooting off the felt!

Thank you for any advice you guys have.

For $50 you should be able to find a table top. If you have a round or square kitchen table, go with an octagon shape, which will limit your game (mostly) to 8 players. If you have a slightly more rectangular table, there are oval table tops that still mostly work best for 8 but you can squeeze 1-2 more in (though 10 is a real squeeze).

If you're not in a rush, look around craigslist and whatnot. Most people in my group found a used one in the $25-30 range, though it can take some hunting. IME if you find one in that range and it's not a mess, grab it asap as they move fast.

I have both the octagon and the oval. There's no real difference, it just depends on what works with your room. (Octagons often come with slots for your chips. Neither has a safe set-up for beverages on the table; I recommend all drinks go on side tables.) I have hosted for about 5 years and I'm still on the same octagon table top I started with.

Moving soon, if you are in So Cal mine (folding, octagonal, stand-alone, modest but functional) is available, PM me.

Built mine for a couple hundred bucks

IMO a good table/setup is the single best way to not only get regular players but keep regular players. Once i bought a nice table and put some effort into my game room/tv setup people loved it and I had a deep waiting list to get into the game.

You can (or at least used to be able to) order a "big" or "small" poker table from Costco online. I think the "big" one was about $400 CDN and I am sure cheaper in the US (since everything is cheaper in the US). It is good, seats 9 well and the legs fold for easy storage. Unless you want to build one yourself, this is probably your best option.