Things to Consider When Choosing a Lot to Build Your Home On

Choosing a lot to build on can be as challenging – if not more challenging – than selecting a home design plan for your custom build. After all, you’ll want to make sure that WHERE you build your home is just as perfect as the home you’re designing.

So what kinds of things should you consider when you’re searching for a lot to build your custom home on? We’ve put together a list of some of the key factors to keep in mind as you’re hunting for the perfect piece of land for your build.

Keep The Following Factors in Mind When Considering a Plot of Land for Your Custom Home

Zoning Regulations and Restrictions

This is perhaps one of the most important things to consider when you’re selecting a lot to build on. You’ll want to be sure that the land you’ve found is appropriate for building on – and that you have the right from the proper authorities to construct what you’re planning to.

There’s nothing worse than purchasing a lot with the intent to build on it only to find out that certain regulations have made it impossible for you to do so. So check this carefully before you commit to a lot!

Nearby Empty Lots

Choosing a lot surrounded by empty plots may seem appealing initially, but the reality is you don’t know what those lots will ultimately be used for. As you’re selecting a piece of property, be sure to inquire about any nearby empty lots – especially those that back up against your land.

You don’t want to be blindsided by new neighbors who end up building right on top of you, or upset by a commercial parking lot or building that goes up on the lot next door someday down the road.

Past Uses of Lot

It’s also important to learn about what the lot you’re considering was used for in the past. You’ll want to be aware of any environmental concerns that could come up as building is taking place. You will also want to be sure that no one from the land’s past has any rightful claim to the land that you’re purchasing.

Access to Utilities

One of the challenges of building a custom home in a remote location where no one else has built before is gaining access to important utilities, like water, sewer, natural gas and cable. If you’ve decided to build on a lot that you’ve found outside of an already-existing development, you’ll want to do thorough research and investigation to be sure your home can be reached by the necessary utilities.

You’ll also want to understand the implications and costs that will be associated with putting those utilities in place.

Shape of Lot

Be sure to take the shape of the piece of land you’re considering building on into consideration. While the shape of the lot may not seem like an issue initially when the lot is empty, it can pose a challenge when building and construction begin.

The shape of the lot will likely impact where your house, driveway, sidewalk, etc. can be placed so a funky lot can leave you with a funky layout that you may not love.

Lot Features

Take into account the lot’s features as you’re considering your land options. A pond may seem endearing initially, but there’s a chance it could interfere with where you’re able to build. The same goes for a lot with lots of trees, boulders, steep slopes, and other features that can ultimately present challenges when building commences.

You’ll also want to think about what the actual lot is made of. Building on certain types of ground materials can prose problems and challenges, so you’ll want to be sure that the lot you’ve chosen is well suited for the type of construction you’re hoping to do.

Lot Surroundings

Be sure to take the lot’s surroundings into account as you’re making your selection. In addition to paying attention to empty lots that might back up to your piece of property, consider nearby roadways, bodies of water, buildings, and so on.

More broadly, you’ll also want to carefully consider the location of the lot in terms of proximity to your workplace, local schools and conveniences like grocery stores and gas stations.

Wondering How to Go About Finding the Lot That’s Right For You?

There are a number of ways you can go about finding a lot that’s appropriate for custom building. We delve more into that here!

Interested in building a custom home in the greater Capital Region of Upstate NY? Work with Heritage Custom Builders! We’ll help you find the lot that’s right for you and guide you every step of the way as you design the home you’ve always imagined.

Learn more about us here, then give us a call at (518) 348-0931 or contact us online to get the conversation started about your custom home building dreams!