I keep hearing that the character that will allow us to change our appearance is thieves guild. I'm a big rper, and Im NOT joining the thieves guild and I need to get rid of this goatee. any thoughts?

I'm not sure this "changer" will be related to the Thieves Guild.
At least , I hope he won't.

i think this person is simply part of the theives guild, but everyone should be able to access him

You won't need to join the guild, I assume that it may be deeper into the Ratway.

I've heard there will be a way to change your appearence via someone through the Ratways. It makes sense for him to be near, or related to the Thieve's Guild. The Thieve's Guild revolves around crime. If you get caught, you can change your face. While it probably won't get rid of your bounty, it just makes sense to have it near them.

Though it would be better if it were some small quest that involved some all-powerful wizard that was a proffessional on the races of Tamriel and could change your race and gender. Which I heard you can not do..

From what I can tell you don't have to join the theives guild just go to the rat way and find the person.