[Greenbuilding] asking for advice

[Wayne Mueller]

Hello green builders,

This is my first posting and I am looking for some advice about building an
energy efficient home.

Since this would be my first project, I would start out conservatively.
This may be a spec house and loosing money would be a disaster for me.  I
don't have to make a lot of money, but I really need to avoid loosing money
on the deal.  

The house would be a 2 story 4 bedroom colonial probably 32 x 36.  I believe
this is within the LEED-H limit for a 4 bedroom design.

I am considering the use of SIP's, either 8 inch or 10 inch thick. Is this a
good idea from a leakage (overall insulation) standpoint?  The SIP
manufacturer around here can design the outer shell, manufacture it and
assemble it for me on site, which would seem to be very practical.  What are
your experiences with SIP's regarding longevity, weather sealing, cost,
etc.?

Any suggestions on things that are definite must haves and items I should
stay away from would be most appreciated. I have a hundred other questions
but I will stop here for now.

Thanks,

Wayne