Design with the an eye for future changes. This is key. Choose a house plan that you love, but consider future options: Is it possible to add on later? Can you add a second story in five years? Porches can also be very expensive, and it might be easier to add one in the future. Your builder will be able to help in this area and knows what can be changed cost-effectively.

Lower the square footage. This is an easy money saver when you are building a house, and it won’t necessarily be a huge sacrifice. Many formal dining rooms aren’t used very often, and large bedrooms can be wasted space if they aren’t used for much more than sleeping. Stick with an open floor plan and consider not having vaulted ceilings. These can make a space seem less cozy and raise your energy bill.

Source: SFGate