[villagetinker]

Originally Posted by Hurrikane

As we understand it from recent forum posts, the “Street of Dreams” build process is now more like the “Avenue of Disappointment” regarding very limited choices and options. Thinking of going with the bare minimum selections or least expensive choices then have everything from tile flooring, backsplash, light fixtures, and blinds, added after closing…

Guess choosing basic carpet everywhere possible is the cheapest way to proceed with upgrading to tile flooring later; omit what we can or select the least expensive options. Cabinets, sinks, countertops, and shower, we are thinking those are the “keepers” and we should choose best of what’s available not replacing later.

Has anyone followed a similar strategy and can say they are happy with the results (choices, costs, and quality of third party workmanship)?

I believe I agree with your assessment, we bought a lot and built in a different era (2013) and were able to get almost everything we wanted. I agree with getting quality cabinets and counter tops, some friends went what I would call a nightmare getting new counter tops. The general opinion is to avoid grout in the bathrooms, IF (BIG IF) you can get epoxy based grout then I would go with tile and this grout, as it is sealed. We had to seal our a few years after moving in but are very happy with the results. There are so many choices with flooring that you will need time to decide. We had carpet (I loved the quiet), however after a few years these showed the normal wear and tear, I refused tile (too noisy), we settled on a very nice vinyl plank floor (NOT a conventional engineered floor). My point, get the stuff you absolutely know you want, move into your house and then decide what needs to be changed.
Hope this helps.