yes, my thinking exactly. why buy such a big house (even though the psf is of course more worth it). but do remember that if one buys a semidee (for eg) one gets richer neighbours. and the precinct will be lower density. living there will be slightly more prestigious.
in response to questions on how to determine the exact buildup, the answer is to go to the show house and bring a measuring tape. do it on paper yourself. it's not difficult.
But if want to buy 1,000 sq ft single storey house with garden, it is possible in SG. Just buy patio condo unit on ground floor, as it is quite comparable? Haha....That said, my preference is for 2 or 3 storey house, ideally with a manageable size garden, say 1,600 sq ft (20 x 80).