go with the simplest one! something like a dual gate FET: that's going
to ease problems with the local oscillator.
But build it as a separate module on a small PCB, and wire it in. that
way you'll be able to experimwnt later on by replacing the module. that
way you can go from easy and simple to complex and high perfoemance.
for a first it hard to beat the method. i see you're getting too much
info, especially for a newcomer!
stay in touch, I'll try to help you to the limit of my abilities.
Saaandy 4Z5KS