So let me just start this off with my plan to build my own sump. I had gotten a pre drilled 40 gallon aquarium from a relocating fish store. My plan is to use the current holes and plum my own set up with my own personally built sump. So i'm here asking advise on how big I should go with my sump, what return pump is recommended, and in general opinions and conversation about the plan. I'm also curious of where to purchase equipment that would be good on price as i'm fresh out of college and not looking to spend much. However, don't be deceived, with graduation comes graduation money and funding the tank and maintaining it will not be a problem, as I also work full time and am very close with multiple LFS's in my area. Here's my current list of things I will be getting before I add any livestock.
Submersible Pump
Heater
Tank Stand
Lid/top
Lighting
Protein Skimmer
Media Reactor
Live Rock
Submersible Pump
Heater
Tank Stand
Lid/top
Lighting
Protein Skimmer
Media Reactor
Live Rock