We brew beer all the time (actually, the gf does most of the work). Actually, she does all the work.

Watch Craigslist if you're price-sensitive. Guys are sometimes getting rid of brewing supplies, like carboys.

Sanitize. Using bleach. If you properly sanitize and handle stuff, the beer will be perfectly safe.

Bottling is a PITA.

Been brewing for about five years.
Do 10 and 5 gallon batches mostly all grain, I mainly keg but do bottle stouts, porters and barley wines. It is tough doing 10 gallons just not up to drinking that much but with all grains, the time it takes you might as well do 10 gallons. Tend to give away lots to my friends.