snanksv,
To be honest, you should try the guitar forums. There are a ton of them. Having said that, I have personally known a dozen local guys that have spent their whole lives doing what you have in mind. Exactly one became noteworthy (Tom Barth http://www.njskylands.com/clguitars.htm ). It's a labor of love, and you better love it if you're gonna be on your own and survive. Reputation is everything. That takes time. The best hook that I've seen is a local guy that is mobile. He has a fully equiped shop that will come to your house to do the repairs. Clever helps.
A couple other thoughts. Remember that any trade requires specialized tools and equipment. This includes luthering. Want to build or repair a fine accoustic guitar? Yoe better have the tools, and that means a substantial outlay right from the beginning. I hope you have the means to either equip yourself, or have a regular job in the meantime.
Obviously you have to learn before you can do. Best achieved by an apprenticeship. Make a list of the luthers that you really admire and want to emulate. Then touch base with them and see if any positions are available.. even if it's cleaning up the shop.
Finally, to answer your question about this being a pipe dream, try telling that to the guy that invented the pipe  !!
Good luck, Paul
_________________________
WUDAYAKNOW.. For the first time in my life, I'm wrong again!!
| 
