Why not buy a Mapleglo Rickenbacker and get it painted Candy red?

Considering that a professional refinish of the neck and body would cost you in excess of $500, take several weeks to complete, and negatively affect the resale value, I would say it's a poor financial decision...but the music industry is built on poor financial decisions so don't let me talk you out of it if you want it that badly.

 

I’m thinking if I’m on a budget I DGAS what colour my bass is.

 

My thought is that under those circumstances, spending 2.5k on a bass is not the most fiscally responsible of ideas.

 

This. If you are on that budget, you should be getting a used Squier or MIM, and putting money aside for that bass (and perhaps your rent).