Suggestions?

Not any time soon, but I would like to get a Lizard sometime in the future. I really like monitor lizards but yet to find one that doesn't get humongous. I'd like something that maybe gets as big as a Beardie (maybe a bit bigger).

What do you all suggest for a Lizard Noobie? I'm open to all suggestions. :)

Any monitor, tegu, ackie type lizard is not something i'd recommend to a newbie. Why not start with a beardie, water dragon (step up from beardie as far as difficulty\requirements), or the best for a newbie in my opinion, a Leopard Gecko?

I care for the reptiles at the local Pet Shop and I am fond of Beardies and Leo's, not so much Water Dragons. Leo's are a bit on the small side but I do love their personalities. Beardies are great too. Thanks!

Are there any smaller Monitor/Tegus? Maybe around 1 ft long? (Without tail) Just for research. :)

some tegus get around that size! maybe a little larger. I say if you want something larger go for a monitor of some kind maybe a Mangrove Monitor.
they only get around 3 1/2 to 4 feet

I wouldn't recommend them either. The most common and most recommended first lizards are

bearded dragons
leopard geckos
african fat tailed geckos (in my opinion)