Magnum Motor Rebuild Questions

As some of you know my DD is a 94Grand Cherokee. The motor is worn, and exponentially plumiting downhill. Which leaves me trying to figure out the best way to go, i've already got too much time and money investested into this Jeep to start over with something else(everything but the engine,tranny,t-case has been gone through) This will be my first motor rebuild.

First, the Jeep is a 94 Magnum 318. I want to do a ground up while making as many small performance liberties as I can, budget will be 1k-1500 though it will probably be less due to the fact i'll need to pick up a long block off craigslist(250-350) so I can do this without taking my only running vehicle down.

What do you guys suggest as a good course of action? I've done some homework on master rebuild kits, but without a knowledge of reputable brands out there, and the influx of douche-bag companies i'm hesitant. I have no idea what liberties I should take with the machine work or even the cost anymore.

Thanks guys