Listen to the Dominicans and try and do things "the way they are back home". There is a reason for doing things the Dominican way! We have a space between the roof and the wall so all of the hot air escapes. Not only do we not need aircon, we have no fans either - the house is cool (well we are at 1500 feet which helps). Termites eat wood - even supposed treated wood - as I discovered when I insisted on a wooden staircase rather than a concrete one. Make sure the house is earthed (something to do with a hole, salt and a metal stick). Get all of your permissions in place from the local authority to save problems and major bribes down the road. Stick to the law re your construction workers in terms of working hours, payment levels, payment dates and insurance. First stage is to get a good maestro. Where is Chip when you need him??!!
Matilda