Welcome icruise! Just in time for two series to hit back to back, not a bad time to get in as it should get very exciting in the next 6 months or so-
I picked up the 1st three sets loose off of ebay not long after they were released. Then I began ordering boxes with series 4 and 5, and master cases with 6 and 7. Having a mindset of just getting the basic figures is a good way to start- it keeps the goal manageable and you'll probably be surprised how quickly you get there.
If I were in your shoes, I would absolutely hang on to the Veers. Finding a chase figure is just such a rare thing, he may become a centerpiece in your collection, and will always be a conversation piece when you explain Kubricks to others. The first Chase I found opening a box was a Luke Stormtrooper- and when I open up my cabinet, I see him and remember that.
You can always pick and choose which chases to get as time goes on, I have passed on the series 3 vinyl cape jawa so far myself due to price and its' looking almost identical to the regular version. Unless someone dumps one for way cheap, I will probably never own one, but it doesn't bother me in the least. The other chase figures from the early series I picked up little by little between regular releases. Since Medicom took the last year and a half off, it was a good time to do a lot of catch-up.
I know I have some regular releases still available- I'll check my stash and send you a private message.
Enjoy the Star Wars bricks, and you picked a great forum to join. There are many knowlegable collectors here, and a great database of the releases.