You can start with a CM12 and add a package called HomeSeer (
www.keware.com) about £70. This has IR capability a few ways, one an IR interface from conceptuk (about £30)
I use a RC5000 (Marantz version of the Pronto) and a all house code IR -> X10 (from letsautomate.co.uk, about £30) and it all works fine.
What you've got WILL work and does not have to be binned later.
There ARE different (and sometimes expensive) IR boxes (Ocelot & SmartLinc are names I've heard in this context).
I would suggest NOT getting an RF remote control, they are (AFAIK) limited to one house code. I bought one and basically wasted £70 odd quid.