Robert, For what it's worth, I use 3ds max to present my models. I wouldn't say it's an easy program to master but is any 3D package easy to learn?
Alternately you could output as a pdf and show your stuff off that way. I've done that and you get a fairly accurate rendition of your model, in full colour and are able to dolly around it.
To answer your question about what quality, I always go with the highese available. Of course, that all hinges on having made the model at a respectable quality. You can always down-size it afterwards. You'll never be able to up-size it without ruining it to some degree.
Jon