You don't have to have intentions of being a pro to want a good tripod. The reason for a good tripod is stability for your camera, to eliminate (as much as possible) camera shake. Even the movement of your shutter will cause some camera shake.
My personal preference for a good tripod is a Manfrotto. I own a $400 Manfrotto 055 (picked it up used for $75 from a guy that didn't know how to change the head on it
) Look for bargains in your local newspaper, on Craigslist, on Kijiji (if you have it in your area). Believe me, you will NEVER regret having the best tripod you can afford. It will show in your pictures.
Let us know what you finally end up with.
Naturally, I'd recommend a Manfrotto ball head for the tripod, such as the 496 or 498 RC2. Absolutely great ball heads in their own right.