I think a set of dumbbells, maybe an exercise bench and one of those big balls are all great pieces of equipment. For cardio, I LOVE the elliptical machine. Running really hurts my knees and ankles, so the elliptical machine is GREAT bc it puts no pressure on these areas.
Glamour.com has this program called "Body by Glamour" which is almost exactly like Shape.com's program, but it is FREE! It shows you how to do great exercises and stuff and gives you good healthy recipes to try out. You should check it out!