One of the most important decisions you will make when you build a new house is choosing where you will build it. If the lot isn’t already in your possession, you’ll have to go hunting for the right building lot. It’s not as simple, however, as just finding something that looks good; there are many things to think about.
Vacant land – is it a good place to build a new house?
Here’s a list of questions to ask about potential building lots before you make an offer:
- What’s the zoning? Be sure that the land is zoned appropriately for residential building.
- Can you afford it? What’s your budget for land? You may be able to save money in initial cost, and possibly in taxes, by buying from an individual rather than a developer. Remember that country lots are usually cheaper, but putting in a well and septic system will be expensive and may offset the savings. Don’t forget to consider property taxes in the area.
- Is the location right? Think about where you want to live. Should it be in a residential area where neighbors are close or a more rural setting with land around and more privacy? What’s the commute like to work, school, shopping areas, relatives etc.
- Are there amenities that fit your lifestyle nearby? These might include parks and trails, off leash areas for dogs, recreation facilities, golf courses, beaches etc.
- Is the size and shape right? Do you want space on either side to separate you from neighbors, or a deep lot with privacy in the back? Where will you put the house? The slope of the land and physical features, such as rock and water features will influence this as well.
- Is the lot serviced? If your house won’t be connected to municipal water and sewer, you’ll need to make sure it is approved for a septic field. You should also find out, if possible, what the average cost of well drilling is in the area. Some lots may require having power poles put in or road upgrades.
- What’s the average house size in the neighborhood, and what are existing houses there selling for? You’ll want to build a house that blends in, and is of approximately the same value for easier sale later.
- Are there any restrictive covenants or building requirements that will limit your choices? Developments will probably have some stipulations about the home you build, and possibly even who builds it, while covenants may forbid things like clotheslines or fences. Be sure you can live with these restrictions.
- What’s the exposure? Will the house be exposed to the prevailing winds, or blessed with a southern exposure that will allow you to take advantage of solar energy? If you’re interested in energy efficiency, consider whether it's a good lot for a solar house.
- Are there environmental hazards to consider? These might include the likelihood of flooding, or the presence of radon gas or radioactivity. Some areas have arsenic or other potentially harmful elements in the water. If there’s industry or a landfill site nearby, consider the possibility of contamination in the water if you have to drill a well.
- What’s the history of the land? If it’s been used by people in the past, it’s advisable to find out what it was used for. If it was industrial or commercial, could the soil be contaminated with oil or other chemicals? Abandoned cemeteries and archaeological finds can also cause a lot of grief for land owners.
- Is there anything unique to the neighborhood? Talk to potential neighbors if you can to find out what they like and what bugs them. Bring up vandalism and other crime, traffic issues, proposed development etc.
If all the questions above return the right answers, you’ll probably make an offer. It’s a good idea to work with a real estate agent unless you have a lot of experience with buying building lots: a good agent will help you avoid common pitfalls. You’ll need a lawyer as well, if your offer is accepted, to make sure the title to the land is clear and to take care of the necessary legal requirements.
Sources
Building-Your-Green-Home.com Accessed Jan 2011
- "Building Site: Regulations and Restrictions"
- "Finding Land for Your Green Dream Home"
- "Lot/Land Selection for Your New Home"
- "Lot/Land Choices: What’s Your Lifestyle?"
Provost, Tiffany. “How to Choose a Building Lot for Your New House.” howtodothings.com Accessed Jan 2011
Rosemary Drisdelle - Rosemary Drisdelle has been published many times as a nonfiction writer and several times as a poet. Her first book, Parasites: Tales of ...
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