It's 88.99 through tomorrow (by entering code newyear11, after putting one in the cart -- you can test it without obligation).

It could make for a great project, starting with this frame and building it up. Some people here on this forum have done it. You could do a search for other threads, and total it all up. This may or may not be a good way to go for you -- it would depend on the person, and you are probably in the best position to evaluate it for yourself.

You would need some instruction and help, but you could get much of it (virtually all of it) right here on this forum (just start a thread on helping with the build...), and make use of the other online resources.

Sounds like a very interesting project and challenge, and approach -- and you would know the bike inside out when done. Then you would understand the bike far better, and you would be ready and able to do most of your own adjustments, maintenance, etc., and would gain another level of connection with the bike.

One way to go, among others, but maybe well worth considering or doing. You could certainly make it work if you applied yourself to the project, and engaged with it.