Residential Construction Costs

[Dano]

I am in the preliminary planning stages of constructing a home in Arizona (few years out). This home will be off the electrical grid therefore I'm researching solr/wind options. My question to any contractors is this..is it cheaper (typically) to go up rather than out in the construction.

[Rich]

In my opinion - it's cheaper to go up than out. By going out you need to consider items such as foundation, perimeter drain, excavation, etc. Whereas going up you only need to plan ahead to cover any point loads you may have to align with bearing walls to carry it down to the foundation that's already there.
Typically you will find a 2000sf rancher much more expensive than a 2000sf multi-level home (this assumes similar finishes and property size). On the usability and resale value side of it - it makes sense to build out - think of retirees and people like me that just hate to go up and down stairs to wash the clothes :)

[Dano]

Rich,
Thanks for your opinion..I'm on the same wavelength but I have not dealt with residential construction in many years and logic does not always fair with the Industry. As towards your preferance on single vs multi-level I'm right with you..IF I go two story..the unused rooms (spare bedrooms, etc) will be up there and leave the climbing for the younger.

[Rich]

Agree 100% - I hate my current home (tri-level with basement). The only good part about this tri-level is that you don't have to enter into it at a stairway.
Welcome to the forum too Dano.