I did a built 8.8 for cheap. Got a 31 spline carrier for $40, a new clutch repack kit, unused axles for $200 (tough for me with the 5lug, fox length and 31 spline), $20 for the housing, and now time to find a girdle and possibly gears.
I think if you go the used gears, housing, carrier and axles route, you could put something together for a few hundred. Add some paint to it and your all set!