Also, most body shops are in business to do insurance claim work - not restoration work. A few new parts, some bondo, slap on some new paint and let the hair go with the hide. An everyday body shop may tell you they'll do your body / paint work, for a reasonable price and in a timely manner, but in most cases your project becomes "fill in" for them to do during any slack time. Insurance claim work will get preferential treatment every time.
In my opinion, this is clearly the most difficult portion of any restoration project for the average guy who doesn't have connections with those in the body / paint business. Finding a qualified, willing, and trustworthy shop to do the body / paint (without going to a dedicated restoration facility) is extremely difficult.
