Building advice needed

[Mistkc]

Hi all-
I'm in need of advice from some seasoned builders/owners. I live in Michigan and plan on building a small (between 350-400sqft) house/cabin on the back end of some family owned property. I am a single college student and this is meant to serve as my home for the next five or so years. That being said, I'm looking for a cost effective plan of attack, while maintaining livability and visual appeal. My family is filled with do-it-yourselfers and they are all experienced builders, even though I can't keep any of them still long enough to discuss cost with me (go figure). They are all willing and able to help and can do everything from plumbing to electrical to flooring, so as far as that goes I'm set. I know it's a tall order, but any and all advice will be eagerly accepted and greatly appreciated.
Thank you all in advance 

[glenn kangiser]

I'd suggest looking at John's plans and seeing if you might like some of them.  Maybe the Little House or if you might expand or want something bigger, The Big Enchilada plans kit.  John is real reasonable on his prices and it would give you the info you need to get started.  Forum help is always free no matter which way you go.

http://www.countryplans.com/plans.html

[suburbancowboy]

I would start with checking with the building department in your area to see what rules and regulations you might be under.  As an example min. square footage, septic vs out house, etc.  Then you know what your starting parameters are.  Once you know what your starting parameters are then the rest is just preference, cost and time.  If it fits that building requirments that small house plans on here are a great start.  You might also look at some of the 200sqft building built here.  These most often come in under the radar of most states and will save you from having to pay property tax.