Many who have set out to establish a home opt to purchase a lot and have a home built from the ground up. Doing so can help ensure you get exactly what you want in a home because you are essentially creating it from scratch. That being said, in order to build your dream home, you first need to select the site on which your dream home will best be suited. Consider the following tips for choosing the right lot for you, and one that will meet the needs of your future new home.
Study the surrounding area. Drive or walk around the neighborhood to get a feel for its character. Research whether the area is poised for growth, which can lead to faster appreciation of housing. Consider commute time to and from work or your children’s schools.
Select your lot’s location within the neighborhood. A lot’s positioning inside the neighborhood can have different implications depending on the person. For example, a cul-de-sac lot will most likely be quieter than one located near a subdivision entrance. A corner lot is typically larger, but that means more yard maintenance and that you will have traffic on two sides. If your house sits on a T-shaped intersection, you might have headlights coming into your front windows at night.
Consider the shape and size of the lot. Choose the dimensions of the home you want to build before looking for a lot. Then look at the lot’s physical characteristics, setback lines or utility easements to make sure the home would fit. As far as the lot’s shape, a wedge-shaped lot with a narrow front yard might mean your home would have to be placed farther back on the property, while a wedge-shaped lot with the backyard housing the wide end could be ideal for a pool.
Learn about the topography and what’s below the surface. The topography of a lot could affect what’s physically possible within the realm of building your new home. For example, a steep slope on a lot could be restrictive. Also, if the lot in question is not a part of a subdivision in which the developer is most likely responsible for deeming land suitable for building or not, you will want to make sure to have it evaluated for obstacles like sink holes, unstable elevations or bedrock under the topsoil.
Determine the future use of surrounding land. Unless you’re sure that other houses will be built next to yours, make sure to find out who you can expect as your future neighbors. Do this to avoid being in a situation where your natural view turns into a commercial eyesore.
The best part about choosing to build rather than buy is that building opens the doors to customization. Find a lot that suits your needs to assure you get everything you want out of your new home!
To view lots for sale in the Auburn-Opelika area, call Ryan Roberts at 334-750-9872 or email him at [email protected]! #SelectingALot #RyanRoberts #Auburn #Alabama #HomesAuburn
