Need Advice. I've always had dogs-my co-op will no longer allow them. No restrictions on cats. Made up my mind that I will have an indoor cat.

Now what should I get? Male or Female--old or young?
I intend to go to the Local shelter. I do want to avoid the sometimes smell of cats. My neighbor said that a female would be best - no odor. Is that true?
How long will it take to housebreak? Thanks for any advice.