I did not take the time to read every single post and so this may have been brought out but take it from a seasoned bodyman, find yourself a rust free ( as possible ) vehicle and start from there.
If you do not have that option than find a good bodyman and pay him what he asks, believe me he is not getting rich from fixing your rust bucket, there is always more work than was considered initially and if you pay a good bodyman than you are paying a guy that knows all the little ins and outs that can spell out a long lasting repair.
I will soon be opening my own shop, I may be doing some restoration work, I have nearly 30 years in the trade and I DO NOT know it all!
I have always enjoyed my trade, I have been one of the lucky ones to have been given the gift of my hobby being my career but the work is hazardous and not easy. Only reason I am opening the shop is cause I dont need to get rich any longer, I want to spend the rest of my days doing quality work ( for a fair price ) cause that is what I truly enjoy. ( Also tired of working for greedy asswipes :) )
Good luck with your car.