Hey Sean, welcome!
My best tip is to grab a couple issues of MCM or Hot Rod etc and a note pad. Take notes, figgure what gets you going and pick up a couple of kits.
Kitbashing is taking goodies from a few kits and seein what you get. This example is a Lindburg kit, all cut up, with a parts pack motor, aftermarket wheels and
brakes with a leftover rear end...More time than cost!