I've been thinking about getting in to the SD scene after a couple providers mentioned they got their start through SA before moving on to providing.  I've skimmed through a few pages here, but thought it might be better just to ask.

From what I can gather it seems like SA is the best bet, be on the lookout for scams, don't be afraid to lose a few $$$ at first and beware of high before meetup asks.

Does that sound about right to start?  Does anyone care to offer their sage wisdom?  I'd be skeptical that any of the profiles are real at all if I hadn't have heard first hand.

SA is not just the best bet, it's the only real Sugar venue, in my experience. No need at all to go elsewhere. There's really no need at all to lose a few $$$ either, not sure where you got that impression. As long as you NEVER provide $$ in advance you'll be ok. And don't agree to give her $ at the start of a session. She's not a professional escort and should not expect any $ugar until the date is over. This protocol is one of the biggest differences between dating escorts and dating SBs.  I often read profiles that say I'm not an escort, don't treat me like one.  That kind of negative attitude usually makes me move along to the next profile, but if I dated someone like that who then asked for $ upfront, I'd gently remind her she did not want to be treated like an escort!

Most of the profiles on SA are very real!  It's an amazing smorgasbord of females, all looking for something. You just have to be clear about what you are seeking, then find the ones who match. It's a numbers game, as many have said. Browse a bunch, meet a few, fuck several.  I need to get off the computer now cuz my date for today just texted to confirm! This will be our second bcd. She's a lovely young latina, has zero interest in wasting time with dinners and coffee dates, just loves to get laid and get paid.  Other SBs want a more nuanced arrangement, which I also enjoy, but a hottie who is dtf whenever I want, and for just 200, is always a good addition to the rotation. Good luck, and let us know how it goes!

Sage wisdom indeed!  Context and content much appreciated.

I'm not nearly as experienced as some of the folks here but..

You want to decide what YOU are looking for in the Bowl. As explained, there are a range of women out there seeking anything from marriage to quick boinks. Some want you to take them on luxury trips or give them tuition. Some want "platonic" dates or want to sell nude pix. There are dom-sub girls, duos, couples, etc etc.  
This is an advantage in some ways since you can get a different kind of experience. But decide if you want this to be an extension of the hobby (GFE with no commitment), a rotation of babes on a regular basis (that seems to be popular on this forum) or a long-term sugar 'relationship' which could be exclusive or non-exclusive.
Knowing what you want can help you sort through the profiles. The filters like "no strings attached" and "friends" (which was modified from friends with benefits are clues but the girls don't always use them accurately.