I started as a hackintosh beginner with an 8300/GT 710 combo, and found the process much easier than expected. That was back on El Capitan, and I've since upgraded to Sierra and High Sierra (not Mojave yet, but I tend to wait until X.3 releases or so.) Now with the video guides I imagine it's even a little easier. I'd suggest that if you're trying to limit cost and time then just buy the cheapest known compatible system and get started. I know I spent far far longer researching/shopping/deciding than I actually did getting the system working. Then, because of the flexibility of the HW, you can upgrade anything you find lacking later.