Worthwhile 4x4 project?

[Techstudent]

Hey all, yet another forum newbie but an old iron lover from way back.

I spied this old 4x4 chevy for sale and it is really far from me and in less than immaculate condition but for some reason I'm smitten with the old beast and just wan't to rescue it.

Spoke with the owner and he said typical rust (rockers and cab corners) but frame is solid and the bed is solid but needs new wood. Has a decent running 350 but has been converted from auto to 4-speed manual. He said that previous owners put (straight headers?) on it and that he installed a clutch but, because of the header design, it is a "short clutch". Anyway, he is asking $3500 and I hate buying rigs with too much in the way of alterations or with too much rust but I love this configuration and can probably make something in the price range work.

I'll probably have to buy sight unseen and that's never a good bet but can ask more questions and learn more before forking over money. I love the configuration and would keep it as (cap and all) with maybe a slow restore while running around town with it. Owner said he believes it formerly belonged to a trapper and, a lot like a grizzled old trapper, I think it has character in spades!

Does it seem like this would be worth chasing down and if I offer like $2500 would that be reasonable or an insult?

Thanks, in advance, for any help or advice!