Hi all! Would really like to see what's the best way, in regards to building a house - Major A&A, Reconstruction, New erection, etc. As I understand it.... 3 main methods; A) Get Architect and Professional Engineers (PE), who tenders out job to main contractor (MC), and qualified Surveyor (QS) to certify work done and grant payment to MC. B) Get Architect and PEs, get quotations from main contractors, but no QS or tender involvement- just yourself and maybe Architect to assist in certifying work done. C) Get Architects and PEs, you become your own MC (??), and get all your neccessary jobs sub-contracted (SC) out. Question - Which way is best? Obviously option C is cheaper than A, but is it possible? And how to prevent MC from going bust and ensure work completion (on time, if at all)? My comments; Option A is most proper, but expensive. Too many middle men. But MC can still go bust.... Option C is the safest but most personal involvement, no payment problems: E.g. MC run away with your money, SC stop working as you keep paying them in short but regular intervals - so work keeps moving fwd. Option B is cheaper than A, but has dangers - like MC runs off after half job done, as profitable portion has been completed, so no motivation to carry on. E.g. Total building costs is $325k, but broken down to portions to illustrate my point (E.g. Structural=$300k, Window=$10k, Finishing=$10k Aircon=$5k) So total is still a fair price, but Structure is very expensive and the rest unbelievably cheap. He finshes structure, takes your $300k and runs off. You only have $25k left to finish off, but can't be done! How ??? Welcome your comments and experiences....