1. Fewer corners on exterior wallsLimited number of exterior corners often can be found on homes designed with cost of construction in mind. Corners increase cost of material and labor in virtually every phase of the construction process. In value-engineered house plans the back and sides typically have no concave or convex corners. The distinctive architecture is found primarily on the front of the home.2. Use increments of 2’0"One estimate suggested 1/6th of the materials purchased end up in the landfill. Reducing waste in construction means maximizing material usage. With few exceptions lumber, drywall, flooring, sheeting of various types are provided in 2’0” increments (i.e. Carpet 12’0”, vinyl 6’ or 12’, drywall 4’x8’, x10’ or x12’, plywood or OSB 4’x8’ etc...). Planning your design with 2’0” increments will dramatically reduce waste.3. Due diligence when hiring a general contractor.Just about everyone is concerned about pricing. It should be noted that in the end a more skilled and more expensive builder might reduce time, mistakes, and unexpected overages. Builders have subcontractors with whom they have longstanding relationships. For example, a plumber who may be in the higher middle part of the market may provide exceptional service, and have a track record of business integrity your builder may see as a benefit. If you should decide to contest the use of his plumber for someone he doesn’t know and who was recommended by someone you know, you increase the risk of problems in the construction process. It is very common for sub-contractors who have no relationship with the builder to walk off the job. Who is then hired to fix their work? The builder’s original plumber is the person of choice. The cost to the client is often much more than it would have been if he had just worked with a reliable subcontractor.