Annual Homes & Design Issue
While there are many moving parts to decipher while building a house, arguably one of the most important decisions comes first – picking the perfect property. If you’re looking to build a house, there’s many things to consider when searching for the plot of land to call home. Here, we’ve asked four local experts for the best tips and tricks to use while making this important decision.
There are a few main things to pay attention to when selecting a property. The first and most obvious is size. Investigate the property zoning, as there will be setbacks on the front, sides, and rear to accommodate. Make sure that you will have enough buildable area to fit your desired home size. Some properties can also have easements that limit buildable area even further. The second area of focus should be orientation. Many people aren’t aware that a large set of windows on the east or west facing wall will be a nightmare for temperature control. Third would be slope. Steep lots can be built, but the costs can really add up for their foundations. Lastly, I would recommend paying close attention to the availability of utilities. If power, water, gas, and sewer/septic aren’t easy to connect, it will make the build more complicated and costly.
Selecting the right property for your new home is crucial, as it lays the foundation for your future living experience. Consulting with professionals like real estate agents, architects, surveyors, and builders can provide valuable insights and guidance. It is important to consider the slope, drainage patterns, and soil quality to avoid future problems. Steep slopes may require additional site preparation and engineering, while poor soil conditions could increase construction costs. Check the availability and accessibility of essential utilities such as water, electricity, gas, and sewage systems. Factor in the cost and feasibility of connecting to these services. Research local zoning laws, building codes, and regulations governing the property. Ensure your plans for the property align with these requirements and understand any restrictions or limitations. Determine if the land purchase fits within your budget, considering not only the upfront cost but also ongoing expenses like taxes and maintenance. Avoid rushing into a decision and take the time to thoroughly research and visit potential plots. By carefully considering these factors and seeking expert guidance, you will be equipped to choose a plot of land which suits your needs and sets the stage for your dream home.
When homeowners are looking to select a plot of land for their new build, I would say to consider if the ground passed a perc test and would accept water. If this is overlooked, it could prevent the ability to build on that lot. I would also remember to make sure that the land does not have any large rocks because that would make it difficult and costly for sewer and water to be installed for the new build. Another important thing to consider is that the land is not in a low-lying area prone to flooding or future water issues.
When selecting a lot to build your home on, location should always be the number one factor to consider. Is it located near the schools, churches, shopping, or the general community you want to be a part of? Do you want amenities like a clubhouse, gym, or walking trails, or do you prefer lower or no-cost HOA fees? You should also be aware of the utilities such as water, city sewer, or gas provided in the area and the costs that may be associated with setting up those services. In addition, the lot topography will need to be considered as this can dramatically increase site prep costs related to clearing, retaining walls, or foundation type if not accounted for correctly. A soil test is another necessity to ensure the lot is buildable and will determine how many bedrooms you are allotted on the property. From my experience, this process requires a considerable amount of time and effort, but it always pays off to secure the perfect property.
