Good post by Chimbu if a little pessamistic about cost and time estimates.
I have to disagree with MLS who infact contradicts himself by saying buy something simple....but he would be bored with it in no time..!
I would advise you to consider something more complex if you feel up to it.....I did, my first aircraft was an Arrow, it saved me lots of time, not having to trade up to it second time around. hen you can go for something even more high performance on the next trade.
My final piece of advise would be not to spend up to the maximum amount of your budget...keep 10% in reserve for the first year 'eventualities' which WILL occur.
GG