Cheap Body Panels?

Welcome! Great project. 55 years ago, I was in your shoes. I stuck with it, basically taught myself everything, and now I can do pretty much everything. My first question is always, "Can you weld?" If not, body panels are tough to install. May I make a suggestion? We are here to help you. Make a comprehensive list of what your car needs and how bad each part is. From what you are saying, I'd add rockers to that list. Be honest about the list. Then make a list of the order you might consider installing those pieces in. Think about that order carefully. Then make a list of the automotive skills you have. Then take a hard look at all three lists. The skills list will be quite important. If you lack a skill, find a friend to help/teach. If there is a FABO guy or gal nearby, I bet they would volunteer. I have spent hundreds of hours helping strangers (now friends) learn such skills. I am sure there are others of us who could help. Do not get discouraged. When I am working on a big project, people ask me how I keep motivated. I picture in my mind what it will look like and dream about how much fun it will be to drive. Don't be afraid to ask questions, and always post pictures when possible. GOOD LUCK.
Thanks for the response harrisonm, I can weld some and have skilled a family member who is activley in the trade to help me with that portion.

My Would Be Absolute Best List:
Quarter Skins (LR)
Rockers (LR)
Top portions of Inner Fenders (LR)
Trunk Extensions (LR)
Rear Cross Rail
Front Floor Pan
Bumpers (Front and Back)
Front Fender (LR)
Paint
Clear Coat

The Reality List:
Quarter Skins (LR)
Trunk Extensions (LR)
Rear Cross Rail
Front Floor Pan
The rockers and front (inner and outer) fenders due to my limited budget I am going to have to use regular sheet metal for.

The Future List:
Two-Barrel Intake Manifold
Two-Barrel Carb
Electronic Ignition System (Replacing the original points ignition)
Low Boost Turbo and hardware (I've heard that turbo'd slant sixes make amazing fuel economy)
Stereo
Front Disc Break Swap kit (Mechanical Drum breaks just are not the vibe)

In regards to the rest of your questions, motivation for me isn't a problem, usually finding time when I'm not exhausted is between rigorous courses at school and sports. However I am always able to work on it for at least 2-8 hours a week. I appreciate your reply!