first grow i would go with a small grow tent, 3x3. 400w hps/mh ballast (and both bulbs)
start with soil, hydro can be tricky for a newb, nutes very but ask around, i use botanicare.
ventilation is key, and get a hood that can be connected with ducting to a inline fan.
vent exhaust air out of the growroom and out of your house if possible.
venting into the attic is a no no, you can cause mold and that is uber expensive to remove.
temps are harder to control as well, so ventilation is key.
here is my setup.