I have a relatively small home, but space to work with on the roof and in the yard. obviously i know i need solar panels, but what parts do i need specifically (please dont just say "a kit") to tie it into the power grid so the power company pays me for the power i produce. Any brand name preferences would be welcome.

I did some searching for you and found this site.
There is more info on how to…..
Hope it helps!
The answer is too complicated to be specific here. You would need solar panels, mounts for them, wiring (and perhaps conduit), an inverter, and at least two fused switches. Read all you can by searching on the Internet and in the green search box at the top of this page. Try "solar panels."