Graham, appreciate the comments.

I agree lumber should (and will) be cheaper, but I'm more interested in not starting from scratch, hence the "kit" idea.

Granted Australia ain't as "tropical" as Philly, but it's certainly as hot and as pest-infested.... and they go down the timber house route often.
Ditto Malaysia.

Not saying I disagree with you, because I've also had these thoughts...... I just need to do some more research before totally dismissing the idea.