Finding the Right Land for Your New Home

Building a new home is exciting. You get to choose the layout, finishes and features that fit the way you live. But before the floor plans and design selections comes one of the most important decisions you will make: choosing the right piece of land.

A beautiful property can be a wonderful place to build, but there is more to consider than the view. Taking time to understand the land—and working with experienced local professionals—can help you avoid surprises and create a home you will enjoy for years to come.

Start With the Way You Want to Live

Before looking at individual properties, think about what matters most to you and your family. Do you want a large yard, wooded privacy or a neighborhood setting? How close would you like to be to work, schools, shopping and recreation? Are you looking for room to add a pool, detached garage, workshop or outdoor living area?

There is no perfect piece of land for everyone. The right property is the one that supports your priorities, lifestyle and budget.

Talk With a Builder Early

One of the smartest steps you can take is involving a professional builder before purchasing the land. An experienced builder can help determine whether the property will work for the type of home you want to build.

The shape, slope, soil and access to the property can all affect the design and cost of a new home. A lot that appears to be a bargain may require additional excavation, drainage work, utility extensions or a specialized foundation. Another property with a slightly higher purchase price may be easier and more affordable to develop.

A builder can help you see the possibilities—and the potential challenges—before you make a commitment.

Understand Zoning and Building Requirements

Every property is subject to local zoning and building regulations. These rules may control the size and placement of your home, driveway access, permitted structures and how the property can be used.

It is important to review:

• Property lines and required setbacks
• Minimum or maximum home sizes
• Easements and rights-of-way
• Homeowners association requirements
• Restrictions on garages, sheds or other structures
• Floodplain or environmental considerations
• Future development planned for the surrounding area

Never assume that because a property is vacant, it is automatically ready for the home you have in mind. Confirm the requirements with the appropriate city, township or county before purchasing.

Check the Utilities

Utility availability can make a significant difference in your building budget. Find out whether the property has access to public water, sanitary sewer, natural gas, electricity and high-speed internet.

If public water or sewer is unavailable, the home may require a private well and septic system. That is common in many areas, but the property will need to be evaluated to make sure those systems can be installed properly. You should also determine how far utilities must be extended from the road to the building site.

These costs are manageable when they are identified and included in the budget from the beginning.

Look Beneath the Surface

The ground itself plays an important role in construction. Soil conditions, drainage and the slope of the lot can influence where the home should be placed and what type of foundation may be needed.

Depending on the property, your builder may recommend a survey, soil evaluation, septic test or other professional inspection. Wet areas, unstable soil or significant elevation changes do not always mean the property cannot be developed, but they may require additional planning and expense.

Proper due diligence gives you a clearer understanding of what you are buying.

Consider the Total Cost

The price of the land is only one part of the investment. Site preparation may include clearing trees, grading, excavation, installing a driveway, managing stormwater and connecting utilities.

Before purchasing, work with your builder to develop a realistic estimate of the total cost to prepare the property and construct your home. This will help you compare properties fairly and protect the portion of your budget intended for the home itself.

Visit More Than Once

A property can feel different depending on the time of day, weather and traffic. Visit it more than once if possible. Pay attention to sunlight, drainage, road noise, neighboring properties and the general activity in the area.

Try to picture your daily routine there. Consider the drive to work, school or shopping. Think about where the home might sit, where outdoor spaces could be located and how the property may change through the seasons.

Build the Right Team

Choosing land is much easier when you do not have to make every decision alone. A qualified builder, real estate professional, lender, surveyor and other local experts can help you understand the property and move forward with confidence.

The Home Builders Association of Dayton recommends working with experienced professionals who understand residential construction and the communities throughout the Dayton region. Their knowledge can help you ask the right questions, identify potential costs and find land that fits both your vision and your budget.

Finding the right property may take some patience, but it is worth the effort. With careful planning and a trusted team, that empty piece of land can become the foundation for a home designed around you.

To connect with a local builder or other residential construction professional, visit the Home Builders Association of Dayton at HBADayton.com.