Substituting with other lower priced wood like pine etc will split and shrink.

Another example -- I've found that framing requirements in Georgia will generally allow Douglas Fir while Maryland counties often require Southern Yellow Pine -- the two aren't equivalent in price.

They removed part of the white vinyl and replaced it with pine, stained an orangy cedar color.

They HAVE to be dogs or a miniature horse.And don't misunderstand. 

I'm thinking along the lines of these:https://housekaboodle.com/converting-sheds-into-livable-space-miniature-homes-and-spaces/http://tinyhouseblog.com/tiny-house/cheap-storage-shed-homes-for-sale/

A lot of miniature ponzi schemes start out that way.  

My mountain guests in pine mountain club (small little mountain spot up north of LA) have been a dream. 

I grew up in Pine Bush, went to school in New Paltz, and now live just outside Middletown near Slate Hill.I'd like to start my investing locally because I'm knowledgeable about the area and can be more involved in the process if it's close to home. 

I'm looking to purchase a second home in Hilton Head (preferably Sea Pines Plantation) to be used when I retire in 10 years or so. 

Once you get North of Pine, the gap is even wider.