Material costs may be similar, labor is not, nor is the average build time (inspections, permits, terrain is different, sites are more remote and holding costs during the process are different) all contributing to the total cost. :)

I think we might both agree that the definition of "labor of love" means "work done for the sake of one's own enjoyment or the benefit for others, and not material reward".

Forecasts:My take: It might not be the best time for flips being that prices may decrease and building materials and labor are very high.

After looking through the forum in finding any discussions about designing, I got a general feel that hired designers tend to pick out materials or create designs that do not suit the Investment.

My contract includes a clause entitling me to liquidated damages ($2,000) in the event of a breach but I'd also like to recover the last payment ($4,000) that was made, specifically, for the purchase of materials.

I already found something on my own in that price range and according to my calculations, once we pay for materials, we could make the $15,000.  

Also full term I/O is available.It's not a credit driven product for rates.  

Given the increase in raw material - Any input on how much it would cost for ground up construction in Oakland? 

Since rates are crazier than ever, holding costs can build up quickly, and it's more important than ever to maximize the value of the materials you're using to maintain your margins!

I would maybe pay for material and they pay for labor.