A first foamy that will fly now, and one day be 3D capable with a swap to a brushless set up? hmmmm...

In the mindset of "simple simon", I'll say an E-Flite Tribute ARF. It is not a purebred hardcore 3D machine, but will harrier and hover all day with a good brushless set up. If you just want to fly it around and do regular aerobatics, then the supplied motor and a good 2S LiPo (1500mah range is good) will do fine. I like Appoggee, Irate, Tanic, and Poly Quest for their high "C" ratings, which means they can pump out the amps when needed. Older LiPos often cannot. Look carefully at the rated constant "C" rating.

When you are done with the stock motor, order a Himaxx 2015-5400 and a 10 tooth pinion gear from any of the online suppliers. I'd guess at about $50 to $60 these days. Some rubber (faucet) washers from the hardware store ($3) will help you center the motor in the supplied gear box. Then order a Castle Creations Phoenix 25 ESC, probably in the range of $70. You will now have power to spare on a 2S LiPo. This set up can fly foamys in the 12 to 16 ounce range. Most foamys of this size are more along the lines of 12 to 14. Once the repairs push them to 16 ounces, it's time to look for a new plane. There must be a million foamys out there now. Just pick one...

Your next upgrade could be a quality gearbox. Cobri is great, and the Himaxx box is too. The Cobri has more gear options, the Himaxx has only three.

Have fun, and expreiment when money allows. You won't regret it...