In article ,
Scout wrote:

We're hoping for next May. We liked a lot of the Berks area, closer to where
my wife is working. Chester County looks good too, and western Montgomery
isn't out of the question. We just aren't sure, but we keep looking. The
prices are outrageous. In the meantime, I'm working on this place so I can
get top dollar. I own it and hate the thoughts of a new mortgage. My wife is
housestruck though, and wants a mansion. I want a simple place with land.
Scout

Yes! Do it. My last place was a 6 BR 3 bath place, 54 squares over 3
storeys in suburbia. Built it myself, took years and was a PITA. Not a
lot went wrong after it was finished coz I knew who was gonna maintain
it but still - just the general maintenance........

My current place is a small 2 BR cottage on 3.5 acres that I've also
built meself. Nearly finished including the small attached machine shop
so I have somewhere to play on cold wet days.

Build as small as you can get away with. You can always extend in a few
years.

PDW