HTPC Requirements

[CNoble]

After I got some experience building my gaming/school PC my mother asked me if I could build her a desktop because she doesn't want another store bought P.O.S. 

 

The most intense thing she does with a computer is watch Netflix and Blu-Ray movies so I know the kind of components needed for my gaming rig would be massive overkill for her needs but unfortunately my brain is still in "gaming performance" mode and I'm having trouble trying to figure out how far to downscale this build for her needs. (My first pricing run for this was near $800 and I'd like it not to go over $700 if I can help it)

 

Motherboard-I'm having a heck of a time trying to find a ATX motherboard that isn't near $100 and meant for gaming. Any suggestions? I mean it's no big deal if I have to use one it just strikes me as unnecessary. 

 

Processors-Would I be right in assuming I could probably save some money and take the AMD route over Intel for this build considering the lower performance demands? Or is there any reason for me to stick with Intel here?

 

Graphics Card-I'm aware that a motherboard with HD video would do the job but I'm worried about pixalated images, video stuttering, and low frame rate. I heard the frame rate especially could be a problem for motherboard dependent HTPC and that would be the only reason for a basic graphics card, is it true or just a rumor? The monitor will be a 50 inch 1080p TV if that makes any difference. 

 

RAM-am I right in assuming 4GB would be more than enough for this build?