To sump or not?

[Original Fin]

I'm ready to purchase a skimmer for my 7 wk old 55g FOWLR. Right now, it's a very modest setup with HOB cartridge filter and a Koralia 1050 for flow.
A HOB skimmer would address my immediate need, but considering my long term plan is to convert to a reef tank, would I be better off investing in a sump setup? I guess I'm asking if a reef tank can be done without a sump, or is that a must have?
Having the ability to raise feeders and macroalgae would be nice, but not a necessity for me. I'm more concerned about how I'll be able to manage nitrates without a refugium. I'm not a fan of in tank or HOB refugiums, so let's just say that's not an option for me.
I know that without the extra volume of a sump, my bio capacity will be lower, but I can live with that. If I can do a reef tank without the extra cost, complexity and risk of a sump system, that would be great.
If a HOB skimmer will work for a reef tank, anybody care to weigh in on the CPR Aero Force?

[Parrothead]

Take a look at the AquaC remora or remora pro with the mag 3 pump, I use the remora with the maxi-jet 1200 on my 55 but it is very, very lightly stocked 55.