I always choose pre-fab house, because most of time I only play single sim with a pet trying to beat every LTW. Buy it furnished, upgrade the bed (showtime 700 simoleons double bed, 7 energy), shower (second cheapest one), fridge (2 doors galore), stove (cow poke stove), add a tv (LN 1000 simoleons but provides high quality picture) and a stereo (UL 450 simoleons but +++ enjoying music), and I am good until I reach the top of a career
I never played any dynasty scenario though, but if I do and I have to build on a lot between Altos and Landgraabs, I will build a very small starter house with cheapest but best furnitures