As a few folks here will tell you, I was in the same boat as you a few weeks ago. My previous kit—which I sold in pieces four or five years ago—was a malange of Japanese cheapos and modern mid-class shells. I too came into a few beans—plus a house with a basement!—and decided to treat myself to a vintage kit. The people here will not steer you wrong with info!!
Three of the main things I learned are:
1) Be patient, especially if you're looking on eBay. People are putting up all sorts of kits for sale each week. If you're looking for a 1960s Rogers or Gretsch, there won't be too many kits coming. Slingerlands seems to pop up every few days! But Ludwigs—ahhh, there'll be lots of choices. And if we're talkin' 1960s, well, you rarely will go wrong with Ludwigs! (I just purchased a 1964 shell kit that's basically in 9 out of 10 condition.)
That being said, 2) if you find a Buy It Now kit, don't be shy asking the seller if they'll take a lesser amount. You'd be surprised sometimes how the price might come down $100-$300.
and 3) you might be better off buying a shell kit (bass drum/ floor tom/one rack or two) and then buying the snare separate. It opens up personalizing your kit, your sound, AND it may turn out being easier to get what you want altogether rather than trying to get it all in one swoop.
There are those on this forum much more qualified than I to guide you, but those are the things I learned this past month. Take your time and WAIT for exactly what you want!
