TIPS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING LAND

These are some tips to consider when buying land for building a home or placing a mobile home on it. Follow the tips below to purchase your land. 

Picking out a Lot:

1. Size- Make sure the size is big and deep enough to put your home on.  Remember to take in consideration the restrictions for that area or subdivision such as minimum to build, how far from road to build, and fences, etc. 
2. Slope - Is the land flat or is it bumpy and raised in places?  For building homes in Louisiana, it probably better to get a flat lot, that makes it easier for drainage, which means no flooding.  It also makes it easier for the builder to get it ready for a slab. In other areas this might be the perfect type of lot to build a basement on.
3. Utilities - Check to see if the developer has gas, electric, sewage, water, and telephone available to your land.  If not, discuss this with your building contractor.  The contractor may charge extra, if he has to add these utilities to your piece of property and it may be very costly to you.
4. Parish Services- Inquire about garbage collection, how far you are away from fire departments, and water services.  If the area is really rural, you may have to pay extra for these services and for  home owner's insurance.
5. Type of Land -  The type of soil and the strength of it is very important when buying land.  In addition zoning, drainage, and what kind of sun you will get on your property based on its current location are extremely important.  Certain types of soils will shrink and can cause cracks in your foundation. Having this assessed in the beginning can save you lots of time, money, and energy.