When would I no longer be considered a novice rider?

[Annagain]

You sound like you have all the bases covered and your sensible enough to know you need the next 18 months to build the skills, knowledge and ability you'll need for a horse. The only bit of advice I'd give is don't get too hung up on breeds. The right horse is the right horse regardless of its parentage. A friend has a TB as a first horse. He is a dope on a rope and fab for her. My IDx cob would terrify a novice rider and probably eat a novice handler for breakfast.