Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums - Dream Build: Gimme your ideas

Hi folks!
My first post on here but I have been lurking for a little while.

A little background info/history:
I have spent the last week on the hunt for a 55/56 F100 and I have found several and I am going to pull the trigger on one of them most likely after this weekend.

I want a near show truck appearance but I plan to use it as a daily driver.
I essentially want a '56 rding on everything new with modern comforts.

Today A friend of ours (mechanic and fiancee's co-worker) brought me out to introduce me to the guy who does all the work on their company trucks.

His shop specializes in complete automotive repair, restoration,fabrication...
Fortunately for me his schedule is pretty free aside from the daily customer needing maintenance and repairs.
He has agreed to take on my build and I am going to realize my dream of a custom Ford f100. I am going the shop route because I am not physically in a position to do the work myself. I know labour is going to eat up a good portion of my budget but the guy is very fair and is known for his quality of work and pricing. He has worked on my Mrs. car and charged half of what another friend quoted her for.

As I said, I have found a few trucks all under 15k and my budget is going to be around 50k. If I find some other options or mods I deem a must have during the build, I don't have any issues with bumping my budget up to say 60k.

So far the truck I'm looking at is all original, no bondo, no rust. a sweet deal!

Heres where I hope to get some input from you guys whether you currently own or were like me in the dreaming stages of ownership.

What are your "must haves" or what would you add or subtract if you had to do it all over again.

Heres where I'm at:

I was thinking swap for the existing engine for a Ford 302 crate. (mechanic suggested Chevy crate due to availability of parts and some apparently at a 50% price difference) theres $10 grand right there.
Fuel injection no carbs.
definitely want Wilwood brakes all around.

I want it low but don't necessarily want air ride. What kind of problems can I expect if I went the air route?
Whats the next best thing that will be 100% hassle free?

Do I want a mustang II front end?

I'm sure by now you all get the idea that I am not the most mechanically inclined. But I am happy to read up on any suggestions you al may have.

Thank you for your wealth of knowledge and being such a cool community!