Welcome
Have you been looking at our site for long?
There are a LOT of knowledgeable people in here, and LOTS of information available just by using the search tool.
I would think for $11-$12k you can find a basic barely running 72-74 cuda, though for a 70-71 it will only fetch a straight roller, unless you get lucky and stumble across the right barnyard at the right time.
Meangreen has been doing a lot of research online looking for a car also. He's found some interesting deals.
Keep in mind, you may have to travel to get the best deal on a car, but being in California probably gives you the best location.
Good luck