how old to get them if you don't want to keep them in a brooder, depends on where you live and what your climate is like. The older the chicks the better covered with feathers they are and the most prepared they may be to be outside. That said, I don't normally put chicks outside until they are fully feathered (usually around 6-8 weeks). It is harder to find chicks of that age for sale. When you do, you don't have much of a choice in what kind. Most people that sell chicks, sell them 1 day old, so if you were to buy them 1 day old, chances are you will have a lot more choices. In regards to what chickens to buy, it depends on what your plan is for them. There are meat birds (mostly intended for meat),
there are layers, mostly intended to provide you with fresh eggs and there are multipurpose, which will lay nicely and also can be eaten. Technically you can eat any chicken. Also a lot of people have them as pets and love the precious fresh eggs gift they get, but that is not their main intention, they are just happy to have them and to love them.
First decide what you expect out of them, then let us know and I am sure you will have lots of suggestions. There are some heritage breeds that are more common good layers and have a nice weight to them. For example Rhode Island Reds, Orpingtons, Barred Rocks, leghorns (different colors).
Your climate may also be an indicator of what breeds do better in it. Some people have bantam (they are like toy chickens, very pretty and exotic to look at, but don't expect a lot of eggs out of them. Also be aware of the nature predators in your area, when selecting your chickens.
If you post back a little more information, I am sure you will get a lot of answers with all kind of suggestions.
Jamie
