I understand, the entire system is going to run into those $$$'s, not just the cables. You certainly can place your cables before finishing the basement. I suggest purchasing shielded cables though so that you do not get interference from electricity. Speak with a reputable home theatre shoppe, they're know. If you select to install conduit, use PVC as it is non-metallic. If you simply place the wire, then carefully measure and keep a record so they can be located when needed. That's what I did in our basement. Are you going to have a projection TV? You'll need HDMI cables for it. Had a similar situation for our Family Room where the components are on the opposite wall from the TV. I ran a 1 1/2" PVC in the basement rafters for feeding the wires across the room. 2" would have been better. Make certain to use wide sweep corners. Hope this helps.

You'll get better FM reception if you place your antenna in the attic, not the wall. You would get even better reception if that antenna were placed on your roof but, understandably, many people don't want to do that, Wire your antenna with RG6 coaxial cable.

First, Square D makes an interlock kit for several models of their panels. When the architect is planning the dwelling, he needs to be aware of your desire for a generator backup in case of loss of utility power. By segregating lights from plugs, the refer, furnace, AC if necessary, Microwave and a plug circuit or 2 that will be available in the required locations,(Alarms,TV, computer, modems, phones/chargers) but at least one receptacle per room. With the interlock kit, it has a pair of two pole breakers for the feeds, of which it will either be fed from one or the other. IE, normal conditions it is fed from the house panel or grid, power interruption flip the interlocked breakers and you are now set for gen power to all the loads in the second panel. It is the expense of an extra panel and not automatic this way, but it allows you to use the same brand, type, style of load centers and breakers. AND IT IS NEVER OK TO LOCATE A GENERATOR INDOORS IN A RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION THAT I HAVE EVER ENCOUNTERED. NEVER! IN A GARAGE. CO IS A KILLER. And keep in mind a generator is one of those things that is better off a tiny bit too big than a tiny bit too small.

I have just one question. Why are you using a wired CCTV system? There is no need to use it nowadays. And of course, $225 is too expensive for that. That is quite strange that a year ago you had such an old-fashioned decision. I truly recommend you to pay attention to some modern brands like Ajax. I use a home security system from this brand. All the devices are wireless and you can install a system at any stage. It's better to do it when the construction of a house is finished. Moreover, this system does not require a wi-fi connection as it works from a sim card.