Inclusions and upgrades

The template or volume builders catch you with their "low price" and then get you with their upgrades. I really need to make a big spreadsheet that compares the designs that we like and what inclusions each builder has. For example, we had MDF skirting in our last place and I found them to be not as hard-waring as the hardwood equivalent.

I came across this post on one of the forums about the prices for upgrades, it should give us a good idea as to what all the extra's will cost. My "systems mind" wants to spend hours tonight converting it into a spreadsheet of sorts (sad huh?).

Essentially, I love the layout of the Metricon Addison, and *if* it had an extra space or study downstairs then there would be real problem going with this layout. I am in love with the butlers pantry, especially given that it opens into the Garage.

The only aspect of this plan that doesn't work for me is the Rumpus Room divider. The Family space before it seems smallish, not enough for what we would want it for. I would be tempted to remove the wall (as much as structurally possible), and create the dining space into a double sliding door space that could be used for craft or study.

The thing that grabbed me about the house when I visited it down Point Cook, was the entrance. So much light streaming into that space. I could imagine myself in it. The large windows would look out to a Japanese or asian inspired garden, lush and green.

At the end of the day, we can upgrade finishes, but the layout is basically for keeps.

What are you willing to not compromise on when you build?