It seems very common for cellists to recommend beginners/students to stay in a lower price/quality range.

Why is this?

I'm assuming a lot has to do with people not spending a lot of money on something they aren't fully committed to? Or that their limited skill/experience tends to lead them to instruments which won't be what they want/need a few years down the road?

I've always been one to acquire instruments (basses) that are my "end game" instruments. I don't like getting something that I will reasonably outgrow in the next decade, and I generally don't choose based on price because I intend to only purchase once if at all possible.