Originally Posted by TejanoTrackie

The most cost effective strategy is to buy a complete good quality FG bike such as an All-City Big Block, Surly Steamroller or Wabi Lightning/Classic/Special. All of them are designed to be used on the road and cost under $1000. Figure that building something comparable from an individual frame and components will cost about twice as much, and you will need to also purchase a lot of extra expensive tools. People build up bikes for the learning experience, joy and individualizing of the bike, rather than practicality. If you are new at this, it will cost you even more, because it is certain that you will make mistakes. The final decision is yours as to what you wish to make of this and no one here can tell you what is best in your particular case.