Bob, it doesn't need to be a show piece to be bitchen! My builds aren't show pieces either, but as long as we enjoy them and other model car people respect and appreciate our work, that's all that matters.
Estate sales are often good places to find bargains on vintage and not-so-vintage model kits, as well as other neat stuff that you just can't live without.
Same here. I've bought at least 1/2 a dozen Mopar 727 transmissions, Mopar pistol Grip Shifters, a couple of his '69 Chevy Nova COPO conversion kits and assorted other odds and ends and am happy with each one. I wouldn't hesitate to buy from Harts Parts again.