Thanks everyone! Because I am so new these are all things I wouldn’t have considered. It really isn’t that much more to get a better fork and find a bike with hydraulic brakes already installed.
My main purpose is to get a bike for trail riding. Start with beginner and work my way up, and eventually some downhill. I only ride in the city on days I don’t have time to drive to trails.
I’ve been considering a 27.5 as I am just shy of 5′ 5″ and an average build. I think a 29er would be too much for me right now.