I have been dreaming of owning a 50's split for about 10 years and the time has come to get serious! (I even have the wife's ok)...
Trouble is, I am a builder and pretty much know nothing about vehicles!
Do I keep waiting for the dream car to pop up for sale and buy one ready to drive or purchase an overpriced wreck and pay for restoration?
Not after a show car, just tidy and original.... Budget up to 30K

Your best bet is to put a post in the cars for sale section.

You should be in luck with that budget too. Not unrealistic given you don't want a show bus.

Good luck - I reckon there aren't man other cars on the planet with the grin factor of an old splitty !

Not sure your location but were coming into the time of year the vw shows start so hit them and see whats out there for sale.

only problem with the vw shows is that the prices are normally higher

Splita- both ways are good, depends on you wants and needs and both have their pitfalls. Get some good advice from reputable people with experience. I restore cars for a living and have been restoring Split window buses full time the past 3 years so I have some knowledge on the subject and I am more than happy to help you with free advice.

If I can help call me on 0414 864120
Rob

Not mine
But have a look at this posted on DSK

This bus has been mine for more than 7 years now, but the time has come for her to find a new home.
My daily driver until one year ago (as no anchor for baby seat) the 1600 engine and was fully re-built in 2011. The car has had an IRS conversion and has (4) wheel disc brakes. It has been lowered and has polished BRM wheels. The wheels have since weathered a little so will need some attention. I also have the original wheels. All servicing and work (in my time with her) has been done by the same VW experts.
The previous owner had done a lot of body work and removed all rust from the bottom of the car.
The back had been converted to a bed, which was taken out and bus seats added.
Safari windows (from UK) were fitted both front and back in 2009.
The front seat and roof we reupholstered in Blue/Cream. The back seats were purchased after this so are in need of upholstering.
YES this kombi is amazing....but of course she is 46 years old so there are some time lines!
There a few surface rust spots around the sills, and where the door scrapes as it closes, and a spot in the drivers door.
Rego till November 2012.
Answers to the name Jemima.
27k.
Melbourne.
I'm listing this first on dsk as it's where I found her!
Genuine buyers please PM me for more information.
For pics:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/82282635@N04/ 

Nice looking splitty. Clean and tidy.