I wouldn't count on the savings covering the losses from poor quality and shipping damage or compensate you for your time and travel expenses.

If you really want to save big $$ and have a lot of time to spend on it, I recommend working for a builder for a couple of years and then building the house yourself using salvaged materials or hay bales.

so you don't buy locally for some reason?
why?

Dude - if a multi-billion dollar company like Lennar can't import something simple like gypsum board from China without having problems, what makes you think you can "save big $$$"????

Unless your Filipino, Indian, or Chinese, or speak the language fluently and have local contacts, how do you think you'll fare doing business with them on their own turf? You think everybody does business the same way? You're in for a surprise.

Do you think shipping all these assorted goods is going to be inexpensive? Have you ever dealt with US Customs? You're in for an even bigger surprise. If your electrician doesn't mind installing non-UL listed fixtures, do you think your insurance company will have no problems with it as well?

Unless you stay to inspect each piece as it is made, packaged, and transported - what are you going to do when you find shortage, damage, or sub-standard workmanship? Fly back and straighten it out?

I think this guy needs to get a clue first, then build a house.

Keep your $$ in the US whenever possible...