As a freelancer should you invest 1st your money to have good tools and then reach out to your clients OR start small with what’s available online and with some clients and only then invest your money to have access to better tools?
Start small with what's available online.
Even with the most careful planning, your business model is guaranteed to morph substantially as you discover exactly where that perfect intersection between what you love to do, people you love to work with, and what you'll be well-compensated for exists.
Opt for "good enough" tools that don't require a big up-front cash layout so that you can be agile if you decide to pursue a different type of client or pivot the business' focus.