Building a new home

[Kishore K.]

Hi, I am new to this forum and this is my first post. We are going to close on a vacant lot soon of approximately 15000 square feet. We are planning to build a 5500 square feet house with 4br relatively modern and upscale finishing with 4 car side loaded garage. Lot is in established subdivision of a suburb of large midwestern city. So far, couple of builders have quoted in 185- $200 per square feet range. Are there any tips you can give us to save may be 10-15%? Obviously, we don't wish to sacrifice quality/safety. Any dont's? must have features? We are going to pay with cash for the lot and then apply for a construction loan initially which will be converted to a fixed loan later on with one time closing fee of approximately $1500. Thanks. P.S.Moderators, if this is the wrong forum, please move the post to appropriate section.