Did you pick these elements mostly for looks?
Or a particular sound?
Or just the general wisdom that spruce sounds good for the top and any stable back and sides are fine as long as they look awesome?
What's the difference between koa and milo?
But nearly all the custom ukuleles I see online all look great, and the recordings have a had time capturing the unique subtle traits that make these guys different... so, if you are not located in either Hawaii, San Francisco (or Texas or wherever Pete lives in the UK or ... you get the picture)
So how do you know who is the right builder from you from just browsing online?
In order:
For me, no.
Personally, always.
That may be general knowledge, but I'm not sure I'll call it wisdom. I've heard some very bad Spruce topped instruments. Also, looks don't make an instrument sound better. Here is a plain Jane Khaya `ukulele, nothing special about the wood (except how I got it), but the owner plays nothing else.
Huge difference between Koa and Milo. Milo is
my Brazilian Rosewood - designated a Priority tree in Hawai`i, its still available, but more than a few people have allergic reactions to milling Milo. Go to John Kitakis' site for more info. Beyond that, see the 2nd answer above.
You forgot Maryland, and for San Francisco, you must be talking about David Tachera. Further South, Rick Turner is in CA as well.
As for browsing online, you don't. There are a lot of builders that create beautiful instruments. Online there are two things you simply cannot quantify, sound and playability. If neither matter, then your research online should lead you to where you want to be.
Outside of that, at the $1K range, you should really be looking at local factories. The rack instruments in that middle range that you've set should suit you well, and the quality and playability will be there. Of course, again, if that doesn't matter, and only LOOKS is what is going to define your custom, then you shouldn't have a difficult time. Not sure what his pricing is now, but I think Dave Means undercharges way too much for his work, but he has a long waiting list (then again, who doesn't?).
When you double your range, and you find the right builder in that range, you'll know. Of course, even at $2K+, I've seen beautiful instruments sold, with nice inlay, and artistic elements. Again, its what the client wants.
Personally, the way to shop for an instrument, truly, is with your eyes closed. Then go from there.
Just my $.02 - Aaron