Surfing Waves

Hey guys, I'm looking to buy a noserider but have ran into a few issues. I live in San Diego so there's no shortage or boards for sale whether it be from surfers or shapers. I've found that most from surfers are so cheap because they've had a lot of use and probably won't last to long without some fixing, but every one from a shaper or shop is well out of my budget at around $500-1000. Sitting in these summer months my 8' speed egg is getting harder and harder to catch the 1-3 ft waves I'm in especially seeing all the longboarders catch virtually anything, any recommendations on possibly a cheaper board? Or is it pretty much I have to go all out to get a good longboard? That's kinda the conclusion I've come to, but I thought I'd ask. I'm looking for one around 9'6 to 10'. Thanks in advance!

Learn how to do repairs yourself and buy cheap? Date/marry a shaper? Best to keep your eyes open for a good deal but unfortunately if the waves are breaking small and it is perfect conditions for riding a longboard, you will not be alone in your search. Best bargains most likely will be during your winter when waves are large and longboards are out of most people's minds.

I guess I will try and find a girl shaper, or I guess the other option works cause hey it's common in California haha. That's smart I might have to just skip this summer and wait for winter when they're cheap, never thought of that. Thanks!