I'm opening this thread with the intention of showing off my first build soon.  I got my email from Palmetto State Armory that my PSA lower (http://www.palmettostatearmory.com/1560.php save $15 when you add AR15.COM in the coupopn section)had shipped today and will be here before the weekend.  Since I am a sucker for PSA, I also ordered their Magpul MOE Lower Build Kit (http://www.palmettostatearmory.com/598.php).

With any luck, I'll be able to show off my fully assembled PSA / Magpul lower by the end of the weekend.  Not really sure how I feel about putting together a complete upper yet so I'm thinking very hard about a LaRue 18" Stealth upper, but that will have to wait until I start getting some deployment money coming in and then put it together when I'm home on leave some time.  

Any tips or good ideas for a first time builder?

Congratulations and thank you for your serivce.  Waiting is the hardest part.  I don't think you could go wrong with the Stealth upper....though I have been very pleased with my most recent uppers purchased from BCM and Spikes.  All of mine are 16" or less.

I would love a Stealth to be in my possesion and that would be a great upper for you as well.  But a BCM middy is also a great upper.

I too am getting ready to build my first on the PSA lower i received today. I'm anxious to see how yours turns out. Good Luck