Smart Money (http://www.realtor.org/rmodaily.nsf/pages/News2009110206) recently published a warning to consumers to make smart cost saving decisions when building a new house.  Some of the common corners being cut that can have long term negative effects include the following:

• Decreasing size of garage with a cost saving of $5000 to $8500.  A garage that is too narrow can make it difficult to get cars in and out.
• Texturing walls and ceilings to save several hundred dollars.  Certain types of finishes are difficult to maintain or repaint.
• Installing a smaller central air conditioner may save $1000 but will cost in the long run with increased energy cost since the unit will have to work harder to cool the same amount of space.
• Fixed windows versus opening windows may save a couple of hundred dollars per window but if placed incorrectly can make future buyers wary.