I'm relatively new to bike mechanics so I understand the urge to throw money at a project.
I've done it more than I'd like to admit.
I'm not regretting "overspending" on these builds, and am proud of the way these bikes came out, but no way could I get my investment back.
The latest bike I built was from take off parts on previous builds and I plan to sell this bike at a profit.
It's a 70's Peugeot U08 with an Ambrosio 700C wheelset and 6 speed freewheel .
The idea was to build something with the minimal amount of money, but make it function as mechanically perfect and as possible.
I stripped it down and cleaned every part, re-packing bearings, oiling derailleurs, and freewheels, aligning, adjusting, and truing, polishing, new cables and housings, brake pads, bar tape etc. The bike rides, shifts, and brakes better than new now. Even though I'm just going to sell it, I really enjoyed this build.