All great responses. Thank you very much and we are mulling all the information supplied.
It's a big undertaking building a house in new territory where you really don't know anyone or have a whole lot of information about suppliers, contractors etc.
I considered buying a lot in Meredith or Alton but there was nothing that struck our interest. I would definitely prefer dealing with a small, reputable local contractor....just difficult when you are 3.5 hours away to develop the necessary contacts and local knowledge.