When I first started a few years ago, I bought 4 Polled Hereford heifers, I also had very little experience with cattle. Looking back 10 years later, I believe it was the wise thing for me. They were just weaned so I had a full year to "get use to them". By that I mean get to know habits as far as fences, hot wire, feeding, body condition, minerals, worming and vaccines. So when I was ready to get them bred I had had them for a year, almost 2 years when they calved, they were use to me and I was used to them. Sure I lost money doing it that way, but as you'll find out 10 years later you'll probably will still be losing money.... You don't get into cattle as a hobby guy to make money..... On the plus side it's relaxing and really nice when your freezer is full of your own beef and and your looking down at your favorite steer........ Right next to the baked potato and ear of corn.
With 12 acres I'm going to GUESS that it will support 4 to 5 cow calf pairs without a bull, whatever cattle you buy I would go to a good breeder and tell them what you are looking for, easy calving, good temperament, etc. I'm sure there are folks on this board that can help finding a good breeder or you can google Kentucky Hereford association to locate one.
Good luck,
Alan