I will chime in, just got to lockup yesterday on my man cave room, a stick build with 8"x 8" fir beams for aesthetics, 26'x30' with 10.6' walls and 16' cathedral ceiling. I am retired so can be on site 24/7, no requirement for loans so no lender engagements/requirements. After much research, debate and approval from City I decided to be the general contractor (GC). I have NO experience at building houses/additions but am very handy, can read plans and call myself capable. Google and my city engineers are awesome. Most detailed up to date info is on web. This I used then confirmed questions with engineer. So far I have kept at least 15K in my pocket from "being in charge". I did perimeter drains, house wrap, and floor vapor barrier, passed all inspections first go. I will do final interior finish for occupancy permit, not insulation or drywall. What have I learned so far?
Make dam sure your designer and engineer have the MOST correct perfect plans possible, I would not have "discuss with home owner" on any future final plans. Nor options, 3- 1.75"- 20" LVL vs Steel beam for instance. These cause issues.
Its easy to call builders for a look, chat, and possible acceptance, but dam hard to get one unless your budget is unlimited and your timeline is when they want to build. Campbell River is build crazy so I got lots of "I would love to build, your on the wait list". Possible start 1 year out.
Have $$$$ for the what ifs. Had to dig out 48" of "bad dirt" and fill with pit run, all 150 meters worth, a $5000 WTH expense, plan for the worst and hope for better.
This is very paint all with one brush statement but I say I would NOT really trust any trades builder. They are out to make $$$$, or take your $$$$$, are incompetent (recommend one current with 2018 new codes), never met one who treated your $$$ as theirs. Remember when contractor leaves a case of nails out all weekend in the pissing rain its YOU who pays for replacement. Roofers without tarps? Contractors without equipment, pounder, concrete vibrator, scaffolding, and so on all adds to your end costs. Being the general contractor, being on site every day and present, closely watching, supervising, allowed me to sub all tasks out to trades, ultimately saving me lots.
I know many people who have had their houses built, nearly all say what a nightmare. I know non who have said it was a "fun" experience. One yet unfinished large addition has caused me frustration, $$ and stress. I would most definitely be the general contractor again, contractors have taught me lots, being engaged with your house build adds to the end results, at least for me and I am not done yet.
I recommend, reading, learning and being involved as much as possible if you have a timeline and budget. If money and timelines mean nothing, then be the "best" homeowner/ GC according to my builder. Come on site to pay final bill only.
Good luck, 32knots.
HM