I plan to build versus buy because Im currently working for my father, who is a general contractor in Fl, and will save on the construction costs because I can do most of the work for little cost other than materials. it would be minimum labor cost and no profit cost from contractor.

Lumber sky rocketing  other materials you could not get like garage doors or refer's etc etc.

Composite materials are another option; they’re durable and low-maintenance, but they cost more initially.

We used the insurance company's preferred vendor for the smoke remediation… but we ‘made out like bandits’ on the painting / fixture replacement because they were wrote up  like $8,000 for the work and it probably took us 20 hours of work and $750 in materials to put things back together.  

One began selling custom flip flops, (bought their own material with money saved), Another who was always encouraged with a camera, attempted to take pics for young people proms, birthdays etc.Then they helped me with a former biz of cleaning up HUD properties during the housing crisis on early 2000’s.Next, but not all of the details for sake of my response.

Rising labor and material costs2.

Hi All, would love your thoughts ~A set of 2 large clawfoot tubs as an alternative to traditional hot tub, with running hot + cold water spigot attached, hot springs style.

I'm not sure I'm understanding - you really don't "lose" out on any potential equity by not paying down principal - the general question should be about your best alternative use of your capital (opportunity cost) - that would otherwise be in your pocket/investable 

No marketing material contained an ARV or Repair Cost.

Not furnishings but selecting the materials that will go into the new design of the home.