EWATUB. Couldn't have said it better myself. I have met a good builder and visited his place. I trusted him with some business and he came through and then some. But regarding guarantees?...if I can't drive and inspect it, I don't buy. A well written contract is mostly for the lawyers. Where you deposit your money while a build is in progress is key.
My plight will never be over. This week marks 1 year past the build, registration and delivery date John Steele set himself. I have neither my money nor the car he promised. New customers can do what they wish and believe what they want dealing with a John Steele business. Your "got lucky" comment is on time. I have a set of rose colored glasses they can have as I will not be using them any more.