All the MMOs I've played always have really pricey horses. I remember after playing Lord of the Rings online for a year I still couldn't afford one
As for repairing, you can pay a merchant to do it or do it yourself, but you'll need a repair kit (available from all standard merchants).
Haa Rei update: We decided to switch out the sword and shield (which was his back-up weapon set) for a restoration staff. Bow is still primary but the staff is pretty handy in a tight spot. Haa Rei had to craft some staffs (staves?) for a woodworking writ and decided that they looked nice
Also, while exploring some Dwemer ruins, we found the Dwemer swords racial motif so once Haa Rei hits level 9 in one of the crafting skill lines he should be able to make some Dwemer weapons! He's incredibly excited, did a little dance when he found it.

Finally: We decided to go ahead and use the crowns you start the game with to buy the Aldmeri Dominion racial motifs from the crown store. Haa Rei can now craft Altmer, Bosmer and Khajiit gear as well as Argonian. Wouldn't have paid money for it but since it was free it seemed rude not to.
This post has been edited by hazmick: Jun 13 2015, 06:17 PM
"If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world."
"...a quotation is a handy thing to have about, saving one the trouble of thinking for oneself, always a laborious business."