well, finally found a neck for a decent price. it's from a 1972 musicmaster. I actually just paid for it today, so won't likely have it until next week. but here's the seller's link for photos:
here
Pros:
-vintage 'mojo'
-already finished
-don't have to bother with getting a nut cut (hopefully)
-cheap ($160 shipped)
Cons:
-vintage 'fretwear'
-CBS era's dubious quality control (doubtful that it's an issue)
worst case scenario, i can probably flip it on ebay for about the same or slightly more than I bought it for and get another neck. I guess I opted for getting a vintage neck for all the pros, as well as saving a bit of money in regards to the tuners, finishing, and nut work pricing.
if 1972 is even considered vintage
The remaining expenses:
-Mustang pickguard
-bridge pickup (possibly a SC-sized humbucker)
-electronics (pots, shielding, cap, jack)
-grain filler
-primer
-paint
(please let me know if you have any of the above and are willing to sell for sorta cheap)