[Diver]

Hi, I'm 26. My birdy is about 22. He/She is a mexican red head.

My dad got the bird when I was much younger, and I've had the bird for about a year now.
My dad didn't get him out of the cage much, which has led to him being a bit difficult to handle at times.
I want to get a new cage, but I'm not sure what kind of cage to get or how to make a smooth transition from old to new.
His toys are also a bit old and I'm sure he would like some new ones, but again I'm not sure what toys are best to go with or how to introduce them.

I am on a pretty tight budget, so it's going to be difficult to find the right products.
I feel like buying a used cage is dangerous, because I don't know if the previous inhabitant was sickly or if there is any safe way to sterilize the cage.
Toys are a tough issue because most of what I see in the store is SO expensive, I would have to eat pork and beans from the dollar store to be able to afford them.
I read an article (skeptical to say the least) about someone who was making parrot toys from found objects around the house and dollar store. Like papertowel/toilet paper tubes, plastic straws and other plastic things. I would NEVER use any of this unless I knew it was 100% safe, which is why I am asking around to get a good amount of feedback.
So... in short. I'm looking for cheap, but safe toys/accessories that I can make on my own. And a good way to save money on a 'new' cage.

If something stands out as very dangerous/irresponsible, please be constructive with criticism. I'm new at this and need good, solid advice.

I've also set up an appt to speak to my vet about this, I just wanted to get some bird-owners opinions as well.

Thank you.

Also,
after reading through some of the posts, I know that one thing that would most likely help is getting on a schedule with him. Sadly, he doesnt get much attention, but I would like to change that by making up a schedule to follow daily. Does anyone know of a good outline for a schedule and what to include? I know it's a little vague, but perhaps some of you have a schedule or routine you follow with your bird.
I have cats and a dog, too, so i'm trying to bird proof a room... I'm close to clueless about that.