Thanks for the advice!!!
Everything you listed is actually already on my wishlist here, haha, so i'm more than likely going to start with intake or sprint booster.

The very first thing I would do is to install a Sprint Booster:
https://new.minimania.com/part/SPRMI001/Sprint-Booster-V3-Power-Converter-For-2002-2018-Mini-Cooper-And-Mini-Cooper-S

Or you could also include a K&N air filter: https://new.minimania.com/part/G2NMK1100/

Or upgrade the sir intake : https://new.minimania.com/part/G2NME2017/Mini-Cooper-Intake-Kit-Kn-Typhoon-Gen2-2012-2014-R56

If you decide to go the Turbo route it will for sure be a DIY thing as people have discovered that with all the computer controls, etc. etc. it simply is not practical.

Thanks for the advice! But i did get my base model for a hell of a deal w a decent warrant and what not and im not looking to sell it right now. I was thinking about going for an access port, but a buddy of mine advised me to go for other mods first. I definitely plan on tuning at one point, and honestly i need a hobby so im looking to turn this into a project, so if you could do anything to it, what would the first thing you do be? thanks again for your advise!!

Anything is possible. However, KJ is right. It is a major undertaking. Hardware (Turbo,ecu/DME), software, and money make it a task with diminishing returns. Sell it and get an S if you want a lot more power. If your looking for minor more affordable gains, consider a tune and a cold air intake. dinan, JB4 or JB+, and countless other companies offer tunes with 20-30 hp gains for around $200-$400. cold air intake offers another 5-8hp for about $200. 

Cooper S is cheap enough now, just buy one of those and be done. No point wasting money.

KJ in Oz

Hey all,
       So I'm fairly new to Minis and car modding in general so I was wondering if there would be anyone more knowledgeable out there on where I should begin. I have a base level 2012 Mini Cooper R56 and I want to turbo it and get a catless downpipe but don't know if that's a realistic first mod or if its even possible (the turbo.). Any help is much appreciated!!!

Thanks,
Sal