Hiya SGris / newbie! Welcome.
Welllll, I've got some thoughts. I've been there / done that and have a bit of expereince.
Normally, I recommend something very cheap for a first bike. Take someone with some experience with you and buy something used. I know you lust for a Ducati, but I advise buying Suzuki GS500 or something like that. At least Ducati Monsters are roughly equivalent, so a used 750 would rork, too.
Make your first bike USED. ABused is ok, too, but you need to ensure the mechanicals are in working order. New battery, tires, chain+sprockets, and a tune up will run you a grand. Take any used bike to a shop for a free estimate of what the bike needs. Look at what 2000~2002 Monster 750s are selling for. 1/2 to 2/3 the price of a new one. And many are meticulously cared for.
Expect that you are going to drop your first bike. On a Monster, this will likely dent the tank. The tank is VERY expensive. Get frame sliders to help. ALWAYS wear motorcycle helmet, gloves, jacket, boots, and pants. Note the order of this protective equipment. Helmet for your brain, gloves for your hands. These are excruciatingly important for your daily life and livlihood.
Only Ducati dealers sell Ducati motorcycles, so not any shop can get you a new Ducati. ANY shop MAY have a used Monster, but it's certain that if they do not have a service technician that is a Ducati enthusiast, they will not know much about the bike.
Good luck ... and have fun!

Chris