Discussions

We are in the early stages of looking into building a house. We have found available lots in a near by community and are now considering builders. Any suggestion on where to start? Cost involved, additional fees etc. Are the banks willing to lend for this type of property or do we require a large down payment? pros, cons?

If you can, buy the lot first, so that you pay less in land transfer tax. If you purchase the finished house and lot all in one, you'll have a larger tax.  
 
Find a home plan that you like, and have it priced out with all basic options by a builder. This will give you an idea of cost to build a basic home. You need to have your budget set, so that you know what your options are. Then start adding things you want from there. It's pretty easy to get way above budget, so really think hard what you need or want in the house vs. what really isn't necessary.  
 
Go to a bank, get pre-approved, and see if you are eligible for a builder mortgage.  
 
I would recommend Westman Premier Homes myself.

Used to be there was an average cost per square foot to build a finished house excluding plumbing hook up,land,etc. Does this still hold (i.e.-years ago about $65.00 sq.ft.)

Now you're looking at probably $100/sq.ft for most rtm's. I don't know if that includes moving costs, which will probably be 10-15K. And it definitely doesn't include the basement or slab and all the hook ups - water/sewer, hydro, gas, etc.

If you hire a contractor you're looking at about $250/sq foot for turn key. That's for basic finishes.  
If buying an RTM you can pretty well double the cost of what the house costs for basement and finishing to the point of move in.

First thing I'd do is see a lender to get the lowdown on a builder's mortgage to see if you qualify.

A year ago in the spring one of the RTM builders in Brandon told my son that they would a house on site if it was not to far from Brandon and would do it for the same price as built on their lot. If they are still offering the same sort of deal you would save moving costs, plus if you were putting it on a heated slab you could save the cost of a floor system and put that toward the slab as well.

Sent you a pm, and which builder not to use.

Find out what your insurance needs are ( from bank/ lawyer) and see an insurance broker BEFORE you start construction.

Check out thier website www.riverbend.builders  
they build awesome homes. turn key and will build it to your specifications