helpful tips on getting started with a exercise routine.

I would recommend trying the BodyweightFitness Beginner's routine (here's a link in a really convenient format - https://fitloop.co/routines/bwf-recommended-beginner-routine and a community here - http://www.reddit.com/r/startbodyweight).

Why?

+ Low cost - to begin with you need no equipment, and once you get strong enough all you need is a pullup bar (about £15/$20).
+ You can do it at home - no need to go to the gym, and no excuse not to do it.
+ Simple and quick - warmup, static holds, then 3 pairs of 2 exercises, done 3 times a week - i found the time even with a 5 month old to look after and a full time job!
+ Scalable - every exercise has a really basic starting point, and as you get stronger, you increase the difficulty and the skill level, so you not only get stronger, but you get fitter and learn new skills.
+ Fun - once you get a little experience, you get to do fun stuff like handstands, frogstands, skin the cats
+ If you are on a diet, strength training (as well as sufficient protein) is important to help maintain lean body mass. It also burns a decent amount of calories (I estimate mine at about 200 cals a session).

You're welcome.

Btw, I forgot to mention - if you're struggling for a place to do dips - if you have corner in your kitchen worktops, do them there and tuck your legs behind you.
As for rows - I started off doing mine with a broomstick under an A-frame ladder!