Long ago I realized the best way to assemble a neat collection on a budget is to think outside of the box. Sure, anyone with tons of money can have T206 near sets and all the Wagner's and Cobb's one can handle. BUT, how many people have a 1964 Topps Venezuelan Orioles team set with no back damage?
Make your collection interesting and it still can be world class for your budget. Honestly, I think that's much cooler than some of the complete and type sets I've seen.