You need a laptop with 4GB RAM I think that is enough to satisfy your needs.
Plus webcam. Have you tried Craigslist? They usually sell good one cheap.
Lenovo are good just too expensive.
I would go to WalMart and maybe look into an Acer or Compaq maybe HP?
You'd be surprised at how good cheaper brands are actually pretty good.
A 4GB RAM laptop are pretty cheap now.
Bestbuy tries to rip you off especially since you don't know about computers.
If you can get a 6GB or 8GB RAM for a good price I'd suggest to buy it.

This one is actually a good one. Slim good components and great resolution
500GB hard drive 4GB RAM perfect for you. Really cheap too
http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-ATIV-N...productDetails

Hope it helps