Choosing Land: 6 Features to look for and 5 Red Flags

Building a custom home on your own land can be an incredibly rewarding experience. But before you can start designing your dream home, you need to find the perfect piece of land to build it on. Here are some things to look for when searching for land to build on, as well as some red flags to watch out for.

Features to Look for:

Location: When looking for land, consider the location carefully. Is it near the places you need to be, such as work, school, or family? Is it in an area that you enjoy, with the amenities you desire, such as parks, shops, and restaurants? Consider the access to main roads and transportation as well.

• Zoning: The zoning of the land you’re interested in is very important, especially if you’re planning to build a custom home. Make sure that the land is zoned for residential use and that it allows for the type of property you want to build.
• Topography: The topography of the land is another important consideration. A flat, even piece of land will be easier and less expensive to build on than a hilly or uneven piece of land. You may also want to consider the soil type, as some types of soil may require extra preparation or infrastructure.
• Utilities: Check if there are utilities available for your desired location such as electricity, water, sewer, and gas. If utilities are not present, can they be brought to the location and if so, what is the cost of installation?
• Views and Features: Consider the natural surroundings such as views of water, mountains or other features that make the land attractive to you.
• Future Development: Research and understand the development plans for the surrounding area. New construction can add value to your home and surrounding area, but it can also add congestion, noise and affect the overall value of your property.

Red Flags:

Environmental Hazards: Be aware of any potential environmental hazards such as flood zones, soil contamination, or other issues that may affect the quality of the land or the safety of the property.

• Easements: Be aware of any easements or rights of way that may be associated with the land, such as a utility company’s right to access the property. This can limit the use of the land or affect your ability to build on it.
• Building Restrictions: Check for any building restrictions or regulations that may impact your ability to build your desired home on the land, such as minimum lot size or building height restrictions.
• Access: Consider how easy it is to access the property. Is the land located on a private road, or is there public road access? Will you need to build a driveway or road to access the property, and if so, what is the cost?
• Cost: Of course, one of the most important considerations when buying land is the cost. Make sure to compare prices and consider the cost of any needed improvements or infrastructure, such as utilities or road access.

Finding the right piece of land for your dream home can take time, but by considering the features listed above and avoiding red flags, you can find the perfect spot to build your custom home.