Questions from newbies huh? So I'm trying to learn to play. Got a used flute - it's a Monique I have no idea if that's any good or not. I have learned B, A, G and now am struggling with F. Just discovered a possible reason. Pads not making a good seal. Called the local Music store - he told me he could send it away, it would take 3 weeks and probably cost me $200. Is that reasonable or is that a rip off? I could get a brand new one for $400.
Any advice?
I don't intend to ever go professional, just want to play good sounding music, for church and for family/friends etc.
If the pads aren't sealing, they may have been improperly installed, and a complete repad may be required just to get your flute to play. 
I've seen this a bit locally, as "the other" repair shop in town installs pads, but doesn't seat them, therefore virtually gauranteeing they won't seal. Parents are then understandably upset when our tech explains he needs to rip them all out and begin anew, to the tune of another $200. Does your store have a repairman, or do they send everything out? At the store where I work, a repad/overhaul on a student flute, by a well-trained repairman, is a good deal at $200, but if the instrument has such a low retail value, I might just chalk this one up to Things I Have Learnt About the Flute, and invest in a good, used reputable student instrument---Yamaha, Armstrong, Emerson, Gemeinhardt...expect to pay around $200-$400 for one of these, depending on condition, but expect it to last for quite some years with reasonable care. Good luck! 