I would agree that a 172 would be best if you can afford one, otherwise a 150/152. If you need someone to check out airplanes in SD, let me know.
I have considered getting a 150, but in marine-layer country I know I would need an IFR-certified airplane. You might want to consider that if your local airport is subject to the layer...otherwise there will be many days when severe-clear VFR weather is 300' away, but you can't get to it.