The Latter is my only option given the budget. That is the next step.
For now this is where I have progressed to (if you are interested)...
https://sites.google.com/site/hphbumblebee/
You can see the rotor hub that I have created, and the size of the main torque tube, Frame, and some of the drive components. This is what I have to work with. I can build a rotor, and will probably need to, but much to learn in that realm and $$$.
What I have is at least worth a try. I will know this Sat. if this current config. is feasible at all.