These are all good suggestions. Of course, I'm skewed towards Fenders, as I own and play a pair of 1972 Fender Telecasters. One a thinline with P-90's, one standard. (of course, that info is aimed at the other geetar players on the board, not to you nmt1)
As far as amps go, you might look at some of the smaller amps that have a headphone jack on them, if you live in an apartment.
By the way, since other folks are posting their bands, I might as well add mine. I play lead guitar for Kristie Stremel's band, just in case anyone wants to look,
www.kristiestremel.com
Chris