While it is possible to keep just 1 hive, it is more difficult to keep just 1 alive. When you have 2 or 3 hives with which you can share resources, it becomes much easier. Healthy colonies will grow and want to reproduce, and swarming is the natural reproductive process of the colony super organism. Making splits is one method of preventing swarms, and it is also one way of raising capital for the bees to become self-supporting. Beekeeping is an expensive hobby.
Keep extra hive equipment on hand. You never know when you will need it for some reason or another, including but not limited to, catching swarms and making splits.
The greatest challenge you will face is the Varroa destructor mite. In itself it is a dangerous parasite. It feeds on the bees, weakening them and making more difficult f9or them to survive winter. Add the fact that the mites are a vector pest for several diseases, bacterial and viral, and you have a killing machine. ALL colonies have mites, whether you "see no sign of mites" or not. You need to plan how you are going to help your bees thrive under that threat.
Beekeeping without getting stung is like working on cars without getting dirty. It's possible, but a PITA. Go ahead, get stung, and stung often. You will develop a resistance to the venom. IMO, there is no point in being terrified of the critters you have chosen to live with.
It's a steep learning curve. Study as many sources as you can, and don't be afraid to ask for help. The internet has a lot of good material. So do good, old fashioned books. Hit up the library.
good Luck!