Q: CAR WON'T START WHEN I TURN THE KEY A SLIGHT TICK IS HEARD

Good Day, my boyfriend purchased a car about a year ago and has given him multiple issues. He took it to the same mechanic who "fixed" it but now it won't even start. I told him it would probably be a relay replacement and or starter. I also suggested a new battery but he stated that the one it has isn't that old. When we turn the key no lights come on but I am pretty certain there is a slight tick. I feel this could be a minor fix with not much money involved, he says other-wise. I would appreciate your help on diagnostics and a price range I will be looking at. Thank you for your time.
My car has an automatic transmission.