In fact, we were not aware that we were complaining at a high level. In all the new development areas, there are huge mansions with all sorts of bells and whistles, against which our planned house appears totally small and simple.
Well, if you plan beyond your personal needs, instead of a nice small 1.5-story house you plan 3 (full) stories (even if mathematically it is less), treat yourself to an expensive granny flat that is supposed to be for the teenage child, then that is planning on a grand scale. Of course, when costs then explode unpredictably, I as the builder, who has dealt with needs and extras for weeks, know exactly where the cost eaters are and where I can first start to save.
And you also have to see yourself where you stand: the huge mansions in the area are from a different building era, possibly from earners better off than you, and honestly: you don’t build it as the neighbor needs it, but as you yourself need it and can also afford financially. When interest rates were 6%+, things were more modest as well. Everyone must and should use their own time, as it is offered to them.