I built my own home last year acting as my own general contractor (that's a story in itself). I saved about 30% of the cost of a general contractor (I did hire a supervisor to represent me when I couldn't be there). With the exception of a few sub contractors I purchased and supplied all materials. I got competitive quotes from Home Depot, etc. but mostly worked through one of the local lumber yards (most lumber yards will come pickup leftovers and credit you, HD won't pickup). Everything that could went on a credit card. Some suppliers charge 2-3% others nothing to use a credit card. Of course I had to pay the subs cash or check but materials earned me miles, lots of miles. I also purchased specialty items over the internet like wiring, light fixtures, a custom designed whole house manifold/pex plumbing system, and more. I even used my credit card to fly my favorite electrician half way across the country to do the rough wiring...can you say more miles.

As someone else already stated, most tradesmen pad, especially the materials. Even if they won't let you pay by credit card make them spell out exactly how much is labor and how much is materials when they provide an estimate.

It's your house, your money, so just tell your general the way it's going to be and if they don't like it find one that will work within your parameters.

You may be able to pay your construction loan using your credit card. @:-)