Well, first of all, modern equipment was used to build the Glenn cabin before they arrived and partially build the Clune cabin. That was part of the situation that was constructed for the project, along with imaginary scenarios for each family's economic conidition. The Brooks, who came out on top, were "penniless" and had to build their own house from scratch. I was impressed by them, their grace and dignity to work hard and rise to the top in spite of starting with much less than the other two families.