I am just now starting on my set as well. I got the armor and helmet off of ebay for a good deal. When it comes to prices, you need to just pick a price you think is fair and go from there. As for time, I have to work on mine in my spare time so it has taken longer to get started than I would have liked, but it is comming togather pretty good now. Use the search function for questions you think have already been answered like where to find armor, color questions and such, if you can't find what you are looking for feel free to ask.
Check out the trash can armor thread for a good, cheep idea for a first set
http://www.thedentedhelmet.com/showthread.php?t=6290
Here is a link to my armor pics as they are right now. I just started the lettering on my right brest plate, it takes time but is really starting to look cool.
http://photobucket.com/albums/c137/rbeaster/
good luck.
