'Modular' build thoughts

One can build a series of 'storage sheds' that ultimately result in a nice small home. Building permit requirements often exempt structures under 120 sq. ft. (10' X 12' or 8' X 16')  Using basic frame construction, a person/couple could erect a weather resistant shell over a weekend - providing they have plans, equipment and materials ready to go. if 4 of such structures were erected around a center 'square', the inner square area could later be enclosed to adjoin the 4 separate buildings into a 'house'. One shed would be come a bath/kitchen unit, others bedrooms or additional living area. A permit would be required to create the house, but by then the skills and confidence for building would be there too.

Here's a great post from C5's blog that shows how this can work:

Dark Green Mountain Survival Research Centre