700r swap????

My car currently runs a th350 consol shift behind a mildly built 327(apprx 350hp) and a 12blt with 3.73 gears.  I'd really like to get the 700r I have hooked up for the spring and summer, but not sure what all I'll be getting into.  Some I've talked to are saying it's a $500 job, yet when I look on line to find crossmembers and what-nots it seems it will be closer to $1000.  I've got no real problems with that, its just I don't want to wrap up any more cost than needed.  If any one has done this switch I could really use some info on whats the most cost effective...yet correct way to get this switch done?  Also, unlike most everything else ever done to my car I will probably be sending this out to be done.  I now have two kids at home that don't like me spending to much time in the shop so I'd like to know if its a weekend type job or a tinker til its right kind of thing?
 
Thanks