First, since you're starting down the "accumulating gear" road, and since you don't seem to have unlimited resources, I'd advise you to consider that you can often save money in the long run by trying different things out, researching, and renting or borrowing until you figure out what you really want to own, and then buying that. In other words, it doesn't necessarily make sense to buy a $250 "beginner BC" knowing that you'll have to replace it with a $500 "advanced BC" when you outgrow it. You could save quite a lot by just buying a BC that will always meet your needs in the first place. If I had a dollar for every ten dollars I've spent on dive gear that doesn't meet my current needs...
That doesn't answer your question though. If you just want to get something now that will get you in the water and diving without dropping much money on it, consider these deals from ScubaToys:
Aeris Caribe BCD, BCDS: Men, Aeris, Aeris Caribe BCD
RipTide Zone BCD, BCDS: Men, RipTide, RipTide Zone BCD
Either of them will get the job done, and with your 10% discount for being a forum member, they're great deals.