Suggestions on a new kit system for a noob

[nayr]

BlueIris should be on dedicated hardware; not shared with your MediaServer.. for example you'll go to copy a big movie to your media server and all your cameras will start dropping frames as you choke out either the disks, the network, or something else.

 

[looney2ns]

Go to the Dahua subforum here: Dahua
And start reading. LOTS of good info there.
Have your electrician install Cat 6 from a central spot to all the locations you THINK you may want a cam. Keep in mind, their are lots of electricians that don't know squat about low voltage installs.

When your ready, buy Dahua, and order from Aliexpress. Buy once, cry once.
If you want Blue Iris, purchase a refurbished I5-6500 or I7-6700.