For the last year and a half, Americans experienced historically low-interest rates. And the 2022 market doesn’t look like it will slow anyone down either. Although building your home is exciting and presents a world of possibilities, you should never take the first available property on the market. Use this checklist to help you determine when a lot fits your floor plan.
The Perfect Lot Checklist
You want to look for five main things when deciding on a lot. Whether you’re in a subdivision and want resale value or looking to buy land out in the country with mature trees and natural sunlight, you must know what to look for while surveying the land.
#1: Hire a Good Builder
One of the most critical steps in this process is working with a builder who sees your vision and plans. Builders have connections you otherwise wouldn’t be able to take advantage of in most situations
If you have a builder helping you look for land, you can count on someone to guide you through current and prospective locations.
#2: Proximity to Neighboring Schools and Locations
Although more people than ever work from home now, commutes are still typical. Not only should you think about commutes to work, but consider driving your children to school and how close you are to grocery stores and other essential establishments.
#3: The Slope of the Land
This item is one of the best reasons to have a builder. Contrary to popular belief, the flat lot is not necessarily the best building site. Sometimes you want sloped land. However, the type of slope (downslope, upslope, or side slope) and the degree to which it declines will control specific features and limit your backyard space.
#4: Location in Subdivision
If you decide to build in a subdivision, you won’t have to worry about finding a builder since a singular builder traditionally constructs an entire community. However, it would help to consider which lot you want to purchase. Every lot has its benefits and drawbacks, so you must know what you want before looking at a building lot.
For example, corner lots run along two streets and are great for a side load garage, but these lots are more expensive. Secluded cul-de-sacs are great for families with children because they’re safer, but they pose an issue with snow removal and have narrow front yards. If your home is at the front of a T-shaped intersection, you need to think about the placement of your rooms–there will be more traffic noise, and you will need to determine how to minimize unwanted light from peering into your home.
#5: Needs and Wants
Although needs and wants are last on this list, they are just as important as the other items. You need to know what you’re looking for in a home and lot. When making this list, separate items into two sections:
- Needs–features you can’t live without (e.g., square footage, eastern exposure, and wedge-shaped lots)
- Wants–qualities that would be nice to have (e.g., southern or western exposure, walk-out basement, and adjacent land)
Establishing precise needs and wants will help you narrow down your search.
Conclusion
There is a lot of excitement that comes with building a custom home. Finding a suitable lot for your new home can make or break the process. To avoid frustrations and change of plans, work Cross Custom Homes. We take great pride and honor in making your dream home come true. If you are ready to build your home in North Texas, contact us today to turn your dream into a reality.
