You can start with non-Festool vac no problems, though I'm glad I ultimately switched over from my Ridgid shop-vac to the CT26.
How is your setup for cutting? The MFT/3 + TS combo is pretty neat, and can reproduce many (though not all) of the cuts you might do on a table or miter saw, so if you do a lot of onsite work it can be a life-saver. Depending on how ambitious you are you could also make your own MFT, though if you have to get all the tools to do so accurately and efficiently you don't necessarily save all that much money. Just keep in in mind that with the MFT/3, there will be some add-on costs for clamps and dogs that you will have to factor in -- though there are some good posts on the FOG for doing some of these DIY as well if you're looking to economize. Having the MFT will also allow you to add a Festool router at some point down the road for precise rail guided cuts. These can of course be done with just a rail, but having the precision of the MFT makes things like matched stopped dados a breeze.
The long, 118" rail was a great investment for me for ripping down sheet goods.
Good luck, and thanks for asking us to spend your money for you.