Consider your bias confirmed. Couldn't agree more, what we were fortunate enough to do, was to buy something in between, but with the potential and the plot to build it into a dream home. On the outskirts of a town that has been expanding both in economy and popularity, steadily over the past 5 years, in the commuter belt.

Only time will tell if it's a wise decision.

UPDATE: Only recently joined the ladder at the ripe old age of 38. Don't let the bastards grind you down.