How old of a guitar is it?, If it has been made in the 20 years or so, it probably has some type of poly finish on it, some of which can be quite hard, sanding down the neck or body by hand being careful not to change the contour or making a low spot can be tricky but it can be done, getting a new pickguard for a guitar that is not a popular brand might be a problem, but you could either make your own or have one made, What kind of plans do you have for paint?