The results of the first ever Hagerty Hobby Survey are rolling in. We’ve had lots of responses, over 3,500 in fact, and lots of really good advice from other collectors just like you. Here are some tips from fellow hobbyists that are worth reading before you take on a restoration project.

Maybe the most common advice we heard was that a project that ends well started with thorough research, planning, and patience. Know what you are getting into and take the time to do it right—you’ll be glad you did. After all, we’re not talking about just any car here. When you’re done you will have built this one yourself.

Another frequent tip was to get all of your parts before you start the restoration. That way you won’t stall the project in the middle waiting for a part you thought would be easy to find. When it comes to managing your budget and saving money, most hobbyists suggest you do as much of the work yourself as possible. Sometimes this is the grunt work, but if it’s grunt work for you then it’s grunt work for a shop and they still charge a pretty heavy labor rate. Consider doing things like disassembly and reassembly, parts cleaning, and sanding, and leave the more technical jobs to the pros. And as with any work you hire out, get a written estimate that includes due dates. For more detailed tips, read on.

WE ASKED: Based upon your experience and knowledge, what tips would you offer other hobbyists who may be considering starting a restoration project?

• Understand going into the project that it can take years and cost lots of money. Be realistic. And prepare yourself for the first nice day when everyone else is driving their classic and yours is in the garage.
  
• Read...read...read... Find magazines and books pertaining to the car you plan on restoring. Look into a number of restoration shops in your area. Ask them for references or a portfolio of finished projects they have done. Also, try getting involved in a car club…that is probably the best place for information.
  
• If you want to restore a car create a plan and budget—then at least double the budget. Be willing to take your time and do a good job. Don't try to rush the work and don't put yourself on a tight timeline that will hurt the restoration work and make you cut corners.
  
• Do thorough research on the project including availability of parts, availability of restoration services in the area and the different grades of restoration you want from the finished project--drivable, show, concours.
  
• Get references from the restoration shops to include information on the quality of work, as well as timeliness. Steer clear of shops that say they will do the project in their spare time. Experience tells me that you might wait years for the project to be completed when they say "spare time".
  
• Allow at least 25% additional over the estimate, for repairs that need to be made that could not be seen before the car was dismantled.
  
• If you want to sell the car later, research the value of the finished car first so as not to spend too much on it that cannot be recouped. Validate if restoration is worth the cost, time etc.  Research the average auction price and plan the budget not to exceed this figure.
  
• Mark or tag all small parts to assemblies as they are removed; use Zip-loc bags. Photos and/or drawings will help with reassembly. 
  
• Invest in a digital camera. You will be glad you did. Photos are a great tool to use with prospective buyers in the future. 
  
• Take lots of digital pictures of the disassembly process and make notes on the order it came apart so it can be reassembled in the reverse order.
  
• Become a member of a club for your car and enlist the help of members in finding parts.  Ask about the mistakes to avoid.
  
• The most important thing I’ve learned about cars is "if you leave them together, they take up a lot less room." In other words, be sure you have enough room to store everything.
  

WE ASKED: In your opinion, what is the best way to save money on a restoration project, without sacrificing quality?

• Buy a car that is already restored.
  
• The best way to save money on a restoration project is to gain almost expert knowledge on how to spot excellent quality work. Then go to auctions and bid on restored cars. You can usually purchase one cheaper than restoring it this way.
  
• To save money you have to be willing to do some of the work yourself and be willing to take time to look everywhere to find the part you need.
  
• Try to do as much work as you can. You will be surprised how much free advice is out there. Ask questions. If you can save on labor you will save big and you can use the money for more parts. Shop around for those components and parts. Car show vendors are a great resource. Car magazines and the web are also useful in finding your parts at discount.
  
• Sell your old parts. eBay is an excellent source for selling and buying classic parts. You will be surprised how much your old stuff is worth and will offset some of the cost of your project as well as finding a good home for your old parts.
  
• Do a lot of the preparation work yourself. Dismantle and reassemble as much as you are comfortable with. Remember to label everything you remove and clean/polish/paint these parts before you put them away.
  
• Go to lots of swap meets. Original and NOS parts are better than catalog reproductions in fit and finish. Shop for the best prices, but ask lots of questions!
  
• Purchase a project that someone has almost completed and lost interest in. It will cost less than starting from scratch.
  
• Try to use as many original parts as possible. Clean and inspect parts from the car. Most parts can be reused and painted with bare metal paints to look original.
  
• When using repro parts always look at fit and finish and not just the price. Most repro parts are good but still not as good as factory parts.
  
• Shop around continuously.  It does take time, but it will definitely help the pocket book. Use the Internet for parts; it’s a real money saver.
  
• Research the quality and prices of the restoration shops. Do not be afraid to ask them for references. Check the local government consumer protection agencies for registered complaints.
  
• Never give a large amount of money up front for expenses. You may end up with no work for your money.
  
• On the work that you send out, have a clear understanding of the costs and expectations of work performed written in contract form, just as you would when building a home. If the shop has their own contract, seek legal advice before signing.
  
• Have all necessary parts and material with the car ahead of time. A shop’s time adds up fast when he has to make calls and chase down parts; plus, in most cases, they tack on a percentage. Once more check on the car often, especially when paying time and material you will have somewhat of an idea as to what’s going on.
  
• Don't buy a bunch of tools you will use only once, you’re not in the business. Rent when you can.
  
• Join a club and seek assistance from members. You’ll be surprised how much free labor is out there when it involves a collector car, a Saturday, and a good cigar.