What's with auto body people? . . . .

I consider myself a mechanical guy, but I do a fair bit of body repairs and paint. I am not restoration quality and I'll admit it. But if you came to me (and remember I dont do it to pay for my house) I'd more than likely tell you not to too. Why? I've been there. Regardless of resale value, some times you just can't see charging what the job is worth. A non pedigre car that can be easilly replaced? If this is sentimental, that's ok. But if that's the case you wouldnt be asking "how much?" It would be "do it". Rust is not like a blown engine. There you have a good idea that's all that broke. Rust gets everywhere and what you see is literally the tip of the iceberg. If it needs frame rails it will need floors and possibly rockers. A shop that does this professionally HAS to make sure the car is safe to standards way beyond yours. Otherwise the laws say you can sue them. Plus, body work that is done right takes a lot of time. I've done it right, fixed when others didnt, and did it wrong... They all take a lot of time. Then there's the materials. a good base clear two stage paint job, with etch primer and high build, plus the blocking and buffing, is going to cost you over $1300 in materials alone. More if there's any red in it. I would say if they truly laughed it was Bullshit. Customer service starts wth the right attitude and they ain't got it. But from thier position I can see why they would not want to do it, or can't.