I thought I'd resurrect this to point something out.
While DMs want and reward ADVENTURE and INTRIGUE some players got it in their head we don't want Sims.
That's not true. If you enjoy roleplaying making bricks for orphanages, or gathering oak wood to distribute to peasants to make arrows to keep them safe from invading undead armies–go for it. If you're still involving a bunch of players and people are having fun, the DMs will still notice and maybe give you some fun roleplay scenes etc.
The whole point of this thread was to point out what DMs actively seek out and reward, what we as a group enjoy and like to see happening. Its not a condemnation of anyone else's playstyle, if you enjoy the Sims approach, good for you--we have done a TON to support this through the crafting system and bounty system. Put those occasio wood beams and stone harpy eggs and gorgon hides you can college to use making the most delicious stew ever and invite people over to your feast. The whole bottom line is still, will always be, HAVE FUN.