20+ Things To Consider Before Buying Land To Build On
At first glance you might just think, "Hey, it's just a spot to build a home, how complicated could it be?". And in some cases it might be fairly straightforward, but in other cases it becomes a bit more complicated. So without further ado, here are some things to consider:
- How do you plan to use the land? If just as a "regular" residence, not too many worries. But say you've got other plans: horses? Side business in the outbuilding? Then you need to know the restrictions that go with the property.
- Speaking of which, how is the land zoned? Residential? Agricultural?
- Can you pick your own builder or is it mandated which builder does the building?
- What size home is required? Typically in a subdivision there's a minimum for a ranch, another requirement for a Cape Cod style and a different requirement for a two story building. What are the building material requirements? Obviously all these things can have a significant impact on your budget.
- What are the specific restrictions? TV dishes? Outbuildings? Can you have a pool? Fence?
- Does the community offer the features you have to have? For some, a clubhouse, pool and walking trails are MUST have amenities.
- What are the taxes? Consider what the property taxes are for the raw land and what they'll be once you build your home. Also consider is there a city income tax in play?
- What's the neighborhood like? If there's a Facebook group for the community it might be worth lurking for a bit and finding out what the residents are REALLY like!
- Is there a requirement for how soon you have to start building once you purchase the land?
- And related, once you start building, is there a deadline to finish?
- Are there HOA fees and if so, how much?
- What utilities are available? Septic or public sewer? Water or well? Cable for high speed Internet and TV or dish? Gas available or will you need a tank? Tap in & installation fees for utilities?
- Will you have a shared driveway?
- What's the grade of the property? Will it drain well and AWAY from the house?
- How much of the land will actually be usable to you? Split by a creek? Ravine?
- How much prep will it take to build? Lots of trees to clear?
- What might happen in the adjacent land? Today's farmland might be tomorrow's subdivision!
- How far to the nearest grocery store? Movie theater? Your favorite restaurants?
- What's the rep for the school district?
- What's your resale value?
- Any major negatives about the lot? Major road? Power lines? Sewage treatment plant UPWIND??
- Bonus tip: it might be worth checking the county sex offender list just to make sure you might not have a neighbor that you don't want to be your neighbor.
Obviously, there's a LOT to consider (sorry, couldn't pass that one up!!).
We're here to help you find the information you need to make the right decision, just give us a call/text at 513-520-5305 or email Liz@LizSpear.com and we can chat about how we can best assist you!
Serving Warren County area home buyers and sellers,
Liz and Bill aka BLiz
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