Among the many benefits the EAA offers is a mentor program for those who are building their first custom aircraft. You can ask to be assigned to a member who lives nearby or one who has experience building the model you want to build. If you’re lucky, you’ll find both mentors in one. It’s a great benefit to have a knowledgeable person to call if you run into problems. In addition, most kit manufacturers offer customer assistance and even builder newsletters to help you through any problems.
The EAA runs local chapters throughout the world. You’ll find that many of them meet once a month and that members often will answer questions during the month if you get into technical trouble. Think of local chapters as Experimental Aircrafters Anonymous.