Building from scratch is how you really learn how everything actually works. It's way better than just buying off the shelf.

Tele’s have a special place in my heart, one of the most versatile sounding guitars IMO, and I love the neck PU on em. Next step I would say is buy a neck and build a body. you can get it done with a router , jigsaw , and a sander, but a good idea to buy router templates. After that try the neck, but buy a pre-slotted fretboard . Then you’re good to go!