What comes standard with the build/purchase?

Get the list of what comes in the base package of building the home. Start to get a feel for the allowances that are stated, and what that actually gets you. i.e 3500 for appliances may be something you know you won't like, so see what it would be to jump to next level, or at lest plan on adding some misc. spending allowances as you know that will be one thing you will go over on.

For big ticket items that are listed, but don't have a $ allowance stated, ask what that allowance is. It helps to know the amounts so you can get a feel for the certain line of goods you will be getting, and if it will cover what you might want to do. i.e kitchen cabinets, what is the amount you are allowed to spend on cabinets?

Begin to question all of the item listed for interior, exterior, insulation, etc. You should get a good feel that the products they use at their lowest level are at least of some level of quality youare comfortable with.

Start to create the list of things that are not listed, or you know are not included, and get some rough estimates for what it would be to add those into the proposal once you get to that point. The more you know what $ amounts they have allotted for each item gives you a little more power to start figuring out what you can get/do on your own for possibly cheaper, and then you can can reduce the cost of the home.

You probably already have a feel for the price of the home and if it is close to your price range, so the above will let you figure out what you can work with to get the price where you want it, and get you the things that do not come standard.