[gjkrv8]

I wouldn't worry too much by not being in the same state as the kit supplier as long as they are good at answering the phone. Its amazing what you can achieve by emailing a couple of pics and then chatting over the phone.

Also make sure you join your local Cobra club and get some first hand views on things. You might also get wind of a kit under construction that needs some loving to finish that might suit your requirements. :-)

Lastly - visit your "top 2 or 3" kit manufacturers too and have a good look and chat to them.

cheers Gregg