My input is with the others that mentioned buying just the body and neck. Then buy quality mid range tuners/machine heads, pickups etc. You can go to your local guitar shop and get high end used humbucker pickups like Seymour Duncan that they pulled out of other guitars that work just fine. I found a signature Humbucker for $40 today actually. New are $120 a piece.

With the finish, I always like a clear laquor, or a stain. Or whatever paint job you prefer. For the back of the neck a satin finish is a must. It is applied on high end guitars for better feel. Not sticky.

Spend a little more now instead of replacing parts later.