Hi Kum,

Thank you for your informative post. 
After doing initial investigations on building costs, I agree single story seems the way to go.  As my land is quite a good size (730sqm), I think I would still be able to get two decent size homes on the land.

Point 1 & 2 are very scary notions as cost (especially holding costs during building) are an crucial factor for me.  

Wow, 26months is a massive jump from 1 year.  When you entered into the contract with the builder, was there any guarantee on the building time?  I have heard this can be included in the contract (if the builder agrees) with a clause that they must pay compensation to you if the time goes over what was agreed.

Its great to hear that despite this you have still  increased your net worth by such a large amount.  Its is so valuable to hear from someone who has actually done what I hope to do. 

Cheers Alex