First engine build.

Looking for some advice on starting first engine build. Have looked at quite a few engine build posts. I have my block and crank back from machine shop. I need to get oil pump, pump shaft, timing set and cam and lifters to assemble. Just wondering what I should all check and do before I start assembly. I know the plug by distributor is a big one. I have the the Small block Mopar by Taylor and Hofer and Small Block by William Burt. What I have is :

71 360 block
stock crank
116 speed pro pistons .030 over on stock rods
72 340 j head with 1.88 valves
performer intake with holley vac sec. 600 cfm
Car is a 72 swinger with ps, pb and ac
727 trans stock stall
3.21 8.25, I have a sure grip for this but not installed
I was going to run 340 manifolds, I have the driver side, but keep changing my mind between them and Dougs 453.

Wondering what order to get parts and how match them to different components. I know my next step is to have heads checked out because I do not know condition of them. Car will be street only. Plan on keeping ac. Want good performance and torque , guessing 1500-5500 rpm. Parts like converter, intake and carb are what I have, meaning they can be changed but may not be able to afford changing them all at once. Just need some help getting started and what I can do now while I save up some more $ for parts. Thanks.