I would WAG that the offset of [double footprint size wood-framed first floor over crawlspace] would be much more than a [half footprint size wood-framed first floor over basement]. Even moreso with current prices of materials. There are longer-term efficiencies in a tighter plan over a basement than just initial cost though, looking at MEP systems and energy efficiency, and replacement costs (roof, siding, etc).

Since excavation costs are less $per/SF and you have to dig deep anyways (at least on the front half), I might be looking at a daylight basement with a walkup/walkout door for some savings over a fully exposed basement.

Thanks 3onthetree, that is the answer that I was hoping for. I really prefer the idea of a walkout basement. This is a great forum where a newbie like myself can seek the voice of experience.

Now I can start zeroing in on a floor plan.

Thanks again!

Here's the illustration with a 4' grade change and a daylight (combined with walk-up door) basement vs full above ground walk-out basement. Also with the daylight there is better opportunity to enter the main floor at grade on the 3 other elevations, whereas the full walk-out requires a stair and deck.

OK now i'm learning, haha. I had never noticed or heard of the daylight with walk up door

basement before. I'm mostly familiar with the full above ground walkout. That is an interesting option. Also I had assumed they could move the dirt around to make both levels walk out on grade, but now i see that would be an awful lot of dirt/expense. Or dig deeper so the back door is at grade, then put retaining walls on either side of the lower walk out door? That sounds a bit exessive too. I don't mind a few steps down in the back of the upper level, maybe I can minimize this by going more rectangle shaped. Say 34' deep into the hill by 22' wide gets me up to a 5' drop front to back.

Thanks again for taking time to show me the grade sketches.

I had an old F150 3 on the tree... loved that truck!