LS2 & LS7 questions

[Tom.A]

I just gave in today and sold my SBC chevy today in favor of going to a LS2 crate engine for the car I am building. I am just starting to brush up on these so I will admit I don't know allot about these engines. I know that there are many members here with both the LS2 and LS7's. I know some have bought the LS7 and spent the 13K but then change the cam and intakes to get more out of it. My question for the LS7 members: A short block is about about $6,000 heads about $2000.00 so if I was going to go to a after market cam and intake and would have to change the pan anyway would this be a better way? I know that I would still need coil packs,front cover,timing chain and the correct wiring etc (which I don't believe is included) but is there anything else that you got? I don't think I am going LS7 (because of cost) but curious as I may save my nickels, but most likely LS2 or LS2 402 stroker? I am thinking the 402 because if I spent the $5500.00 on crate (LS2) replaced heads, cam, intake etc. I mays well go with building a the stroker LS2 which is about $4100.00 for a short block. I also could use the LS7 heads or L92 heads on the bigger bore I think? In addition for any of the LS guy's if you had to do over would you have done the same thing? I sometimes buy to quick and regret and spend more money later. So I look forward to feedback from the LS users.

Thanks,