Guitar advice needed!

Yes the time has finally come, I've got some money in my pocket, approval from
the wife... I'm going to get an electric guitar!

A friend of mine is in a band and has offered to take me shopping but I'd love
to get some advice from any guitarists on the list as to what sort of things I
should be looking for in a guitar and amp to get that "Who" sound.   I am
looking at spending between $500 and $1000 all up. 

Any advice would be much appreciated.



Thanks,
Denis.