Yes, my grandparents built their home over a 20 year period paying cash along the way. Started with one room with a wood burning stove/heater to cook and heat with. Wired it, added 5 extra rooms, one room at a time. Never borrowed money, never had credit cards. Didn't use banks. Used cash only and only took what they though they needed to buy things. They finally got indoor plumbing in the 1960's. They raised most of their veggies and chickens, with fruit and nut trees on their property. They seemed to be very happy and content to live in the country.
