My life will depend on it, so I don't cut corners. An example is the stove. A friend managed to find a used one he could modify to fit his boat. If I had more time to wait for those opportunities, my costs would be significantly less. I don't have the time, because I am pushing hard, working long hours to reduce my debt, while I get the boat ready.
Every free moment is spent either on a project or sailing.
If I took the time to wait for those bargains and do serious dumpster diving, that would significantly cut into my sailing time, and I'm not willing to pay that price. Ultimately, I pay the price in dollars, so I can get my sailing time in. The 3,700 miles on our GyPSy log attest to the fact that I've been somewhat successful at keeping the boat sailing while getting it ready. To me, it's a small price to pay for the best times of my life. Designed under the CCA rules, our boat has significantly less living space than many new yachts.