Pickups weren't original, I put 57's in it. Like I said look at actual finished auctions to see really what its worth. Most folks selling them have them on the high 2's and they've been listed for several months with no buyers.
I'd wait it out until you find one local that you can inspect and try. Wouldn't hurt to put out the word that you're looking for one (on craigslist etc).
I have tried customs, albeit new ones, and yes they are nice. The thin neck wasn't as nice to me as a Trad with 50s neck I tried the same day, but each to their own of course.
My only advice to you is to try as many as you can until you find 'the one', which will choose you!