Logistics of myself getting a cat in a relationship where we're planning on moving in together [both 30s, established]?

I've been with my current boyfriend for 8 months. It's serious and likely we'll move in together in the next year or so (no rush due to leases etc.). He has a cat and would like a kitten for his current chill, independent, but playful cat. I'd like a cat as it's the first time in my adult life I've been settled enough for one. We're open to an up to 3 cat household when we move in, but anticipate 4 may be too many since down the line we'd also like a dog (though not for quite a few years - no plans for kids so this would be our "next step").

I'd like to get a cat but I'm torn on the age and the timing. Part of me wants to wait, as then we'll be living together and the new cat can get used to my boyfriend's cat (4ish, male). However, I'm working from home now and my boyfriend works in office. So, now would be a good time for a new cat to ensure they get used to me and are safely monitored as in September I'll be back in office. Classic covid cat situation.

I'm going to talk to my boyfriend about this, but it is still early on to be making these big decisions based on someone else. That being said, it's important to plan so the animals can all be as safe and comfortable as possible AND so we don't accidentally end up with a 4 cat household. I'm happy with and have the resources/space for up to two cats at the moment. I haven't had any as an adult but am well-read.

1. Overall, I have the choice between two kittens or one adult cat (shelter doesn't allow kittens to be adopted alone).
2. Kittens may be easier to introduce to my boyfriends cat, but if I get them now the introductions wouldn't be consistent. Maybe in a room at his place over the weekend or swapping scents through cat blankets. That might be too stressful as it would be a lot of back and forth (depending on the personality of the cats). It would also mean kitten-proofing both our places. I've heard opposite-sex and younger makes introductions easier for adult male cats, but by the time we properly moved in the cats would be 2-3 years old and my boyfriend's cat closer to 5.
3. I get an adult cat, and hope that when the time comes introductions with his adult male cat go well. Obviously with lots of planning - following proper protocol with separate rooms to start. This guarantees we don't end up with 4 cats even if my boyfriend gets a kitten in the interim. In this situation I don't know what gender/age would be better. Would it be better to go for a cat who's a bit older (6+) or closer to the same in age? I like the idea of an older cat since they are usually less likely to be adopted and their personalities are more developed, but it may make merging households more difficult.

For anyone who has been in this situation, what has worked for you and what has been more difficult? Any advice re. number of cats and introductions, as well as considerations of sex/age or personality?

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from Pets https://www.reddit.com/r/Pets/comments/o6do76/logistics_of_myself_getting_a_cat_in_a/