In Search of the Perfect Building Site

Finding the perfect residential lot is part of building the perfect home.  There are many factors that go into locating a good building lot.  Here are some things to consider in your search.

The first step in finding land is narrowing down the location in which you want to live.  Some people choose to move to the countryside for more room and lower land prices while others prefer the conveniences that living closer to town can offer.  Whether choosing a city dwelling or the countryside, it is important to look up local building restrictions and zoning requirements.  When you find land you are interested in, ask if it is located within city limits.  Check with local city and/or county authorities on these items. 

While you are looking at the land, check out the access to the location where you would like to build the home.  Things to look for include utility lines, sharp corners, trees or branches, etc. that may block access to the trucks that bring in the home sections.  You will also want to be sure there will be room to operate the crane on the day of the set.  Typically it is best to have 25 feet on all sides of the footprint of the new home.  Also check for access from utility and power sources.  You often have the option of having the power lines run underground for a fee.  Some lots will require hook up to city or county facilities and some require that a septic and well be installed.  If your land requires a septic system, you might consider a contingency in your offer to buy the land confirming that the land can accommodate a septic system.  Then call the local authorities to request an environmental permit to find out if your land will perk.

Another important item to check for is the amount of clearing and what type of clearing that needs to be done.  Are there lots of large trees or just some low lying brush that need to be removed from the site?   All stumps, roots, and foliage debris will need to be completely removed from the foundation site.

Also check the slope of the land.  This is sometimes hard to estimate.  Slopes usually appear less steep than they actually are.  Land with more of a slope will require more grading and sometimes more foundation – both of which can result in additional construction costs.  The slope of the land will also indicate the direction of rain water run off.  To avoid standing water around the foundation of the house and damaged landscaping, it is best to build on the top of a slope.

Whether or not you choose an ocean view or a countryside view, your land will set the scene for your new home.  Taking the time to look for these things will help you in your search for the perfect home site.