The successful completion of a literary project often necessitates the utilization of resources that extend beyond the confines of one's individual expertise. This is particularly true in the realm of writing, where the production of high-quality content often calls for the unique skills and proficiency of ghost writers. These ubiquitous yet invisible professionals, who serve as the unacknowledged pens behind various notable works, are a crucial element in the literary landscape. However, their incorporation into a project requires thoughtful financial planning. Within this discourse, we will delve into the intricate process of effectively allocating resources for the hiring of US-based ghost writers.

The engagement of ghost writers, as with any professional service, is governed by the principles of transaction cost economics. Economic theory tells us that every exchange carries with it a cost, and these costs can be classified into three categories: search and information costs, bargaining and decision costs, and policing and enforcement costs.

Search and information costs are the expenses associated with finding the right ghost writer for your project. The literary world is laden with various types of writers, each possessing a distinct skill set, experience level, and pricing model. The task of identifying the right professional to meet your specific needs can be daunting and time-consuming. Consequently, utilizing literary agencies that specialize in connecting authors with ghost writers can help to alleviate these costs. However, this approach introduces an additional cost layer, that of agency fees.

Bargaining and decision costs refer to the negotiation of terms and conditions, as well as the drafting of contracts. These are especially critical in ghostwriting arrangements, where issues of confidentiality, copyright, and remuneration need to be meticulously addressed. It is advisable to engage the services of an attorney knowledgeable in intellectual property rights to ensure that your interests are well-protected. As per the Coase Theorem, with lower transaction costs, we can negotiate a more efficient outcome.

Policing and enforcement costs involve ensuring that the terms of the contract are adhered to, and addressing any breaches that may occur. These costs can be mitigated by incorporating clear deliverables, timelines, and penalties within the contract. Employing a project management system can also provide a structured mechanism for monitoring progress and managing disputes.

The pricing models for ghostwriting services are varied, ranging from flat fees to hourly rates, and even royalty shares. A critical understanding of your project's scope and your financial capability is crucial in deciding the optimal pricing model. Game Theory, a branch of mathematical economics, can be applied here. The Nash Equilibrium, a concept in Game Theory, teaches us to find an outcome where no player, given the other players' strategies, can obtain a better payoff by choosing a different strategy. Hence, it's essential to find a balance where both parties are satisfied with the agreement to ensure a successful collaboration.

Another key consideration in budgeting for ghostwriting services is the potential return on investment (ROI). A well-written book can serve as a lucrative income stream through direct sales, spin-off products, and increased brand recognition. Regression analysis, a statistical process for estimating the relationships among variables, can be used to predict the potential ROI based on variables like the book's genre, the ghost writer's track record, and the effectiveness of your marketing strategy.

The selective engagement of a US ghost writer, while economically strategic, carries with it a slew of cultural, logistical, and legal advantages. US writers are familiar with Western literary conventions and cultural nuances, sparing you the task of correcting culturally inappropriate or inaccurate content. Additionally, sharing a common time zone makes for more seamless communication and coordination.

In conclusion, budgeting for a US-based ghost writer demands a deep understanding of economic principles, contractual law, project management, and the nuances of the literary marketplace. It requires an alignment of your financial capability, project requirements, and strategic objectives, all finely balanced within a construct of cultural compatibility, logistical convenience, and legal safeguards. Indeed, as with any business transaction, the challenge lies not merely in the allocation of funds, but in the judicious utilization of those funds to derive maximum value.