Southern Pacific Switching Layout

[faraway]

I think before I actually start to permanently lay down any track I should first get Lance Mindheim's book "How to build a switching layout". Your thoughts?

My standard answer would be "yes" but in your case and honoring your constrains I recommend to read his entire web page with all it's hints and tips. The photos and videos should be analyzed carefully. The books have not so much additional information if you take the time and read his web pages carefully. Don't miss the blogs. They are also full of his thoughts.