You might also want to check eBay, Craig's list, and other ads for cars in your area. There are a lot of projects out there that get started, then the builder gives up on them because of lack of interest, money, or knowledge.... It will take a bit of searching, but could definitely save a lot of money....

I would check with some of the Hot Rodders and Car Clubs in your area, I would imagine they would have a lot of good information on who to talk to and who to stay away from. Whoever you decide on, don't proceed until you check some references, speak with the builder in person, and see some of his finished cars. At the same time, don't think the builder with the biggest and fanciest shop is the best. Often the small guy who builds one or two cars a year for customers will offer better pricing and take a lot more interest in the quality of the build... Sometimes the big shops consider your car as just another car and their job is something to do until something better comes along!!!

The more research you do BEFORE you start a project, the better the final product will be!!!!