My home is quite small and compact so I dont need the 'wifi is great' talk please.
nobody ever says that.
And I assume it's better to buy the NVR and a camera or two and add on as desired and funds allow?
you can actually start with the cameras, and stick in a microSD. then add a recorder later.
it's kind of a PITA to get the video from the camera, but it works. you just have to browse to the camera with your laptop and review it that way.
https://www.amazon.com/Reolink-Surveillance-Security-Detection-RLC-410-5MP/dp/B07C5JWK4K/ $50 each x 3
and
https://www.amazon.com/PNY-Elite-microSDHC-Memory-3-Pack/dp/B07YXJM282/ $17
and
https://www.amazon.com/YuanLey-Gigabit-1000Mbps-802-3af-Unmanaged/dp/B082KM3PWY/ $37
can get you three cameras up and running, for $204
if you're willing to order from reolink you can get a whole kit with 4 cameras for $319