You are going to hear a lot of bad info, so you have the responsibility to research this site and filter out the garbage. That being said, I would suggest sticking to a moderate lift and tire size and wheel that for stage 1. Regardless of build, buy quality and from reputable vendors/users. There are numerous hidden expenses that will eat your budget.
For best management of your funds, stick with your 8.25 and run 32 or 33" tires and match that to a 4.5" or 5.5" short arm lift. You'll need an SYE and driveshaft for anything you are planning, so figure that into your cost estimate.
Match your tires to your terrain and wheeling proclivities. M/Ts or A/T's choices are vast. Don't forget rims; proper offset/backspace may be required for proper turning clearance. Lockers should also be in your budget. Start with a front locker, and you'll be fine with your rear LS diff.
Equally important is your choice of protection. Rock rails are a must, as are TC skids, fuel skids, and recovery points. Bumpers, racks, and trim should wait for stage 2, unless you grow a bigger budget or find stuff cheap.
Basic safety/performance
Body protection
Recovery gear
Suspension lift and SYE/driveshaft
Tires
Gearing and lockers
More protection
Different lift and tires
Cutting and grinding
Welding
Snide remarks from the neighbors
Air tank and ARB lockers
Diversion of funds to support growing hobby
Spousal separation and distrust
More cutting
Fabbing an exo-cage
Kids appear distant and wont return your calls
New plans for 37" Swampers and a taller lift
Rhino-lining the interior
Door removal
Spending too much time on the trail
Job failure
Home foreclosure
Frequent daydreaming about your XJ
and...
Im not bias at all... Who knows you'll probably get a good deal already being a red letter member and all. 
