Keep it simple for now and wheel it. I would just keep an eye on the for sale forums, craigslists, facebook etc for people selling stuff. XJ front springs and arms and rear blocks are going to be pretty popular for sale items as people upgrade.

People will say to just build it once, but I think in your case, being on a budget, and not having much experience wheeling, a shortarm setup, 33s max and maybe one locker, would be a good starting point. Wheel it, then wheel it some more, then upgrade the parts you think you need too.