So you’ve made the decision that your next home will be a custom-built house. You have selected a builder and the floor plan you love. Now, you just need to find the perfect lot to build your dream home on. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind as you begin your lot search.
- Location, Location, Location: Choosing the area of town you build in is critical. Consider what’s important to you and your family. Think about your commute to work, the nearby amenities like grocery and retail stores, restaurants and parks, and the local schools. Take a drive through the neighborhood in the morning and evening to get a feel for the traffic volume.
- Evaluate the area: Go online and do some research on the subdivision or neighborhood. What’s the area’s outlook for growth? Is there a high or low crime rate? If you’re looking at a lot with a large vacant space behind it, ask it there’s potential for commercial or residential development there.
- Establish a budget: Know your total budget for building your custom home and remember to include the cost of the lot. Lot prices can range from low to high depending on the size of the lot, location in the subdivision, etc. You may also research property taxes for the subdivision to have an idea of what you may pay. Also, ask about Homeowner Association fees. If there’s an HOA in the subdivision where you build, you’re likely to have associated monthly or yearly fees.
- Personal preferences: Think about the location of the lot within the subdivision. A lot on a cul-de-sac can be great for families with children because there is less traffic. But, it may mean a more narrow front yard and less space for parking. If your lot sits on a T-intersection, you may get headlights beaming into your home from oncoming traffic. Do you want a large lot with a spacious backyard? Or do you want a smaller lot for less maintenance? If you prefer privacy, you may also consider how close your neighbors will be to your home.
- Survey the land: If you want to build a home with a walkout basement, a lot with a gentle slope should be considered. A steep slope may provide less usable yard space, especially if you have kids or dogs. Large, mature trees can be beautiful, but they can also mean lots of raking in the fall. When your home is built, will it face north, south, east or west? You’ll need to consider what kind of sun exposure your home will get in the summer and winter.
Deciding to build a custom home is very exciting. You get to choose the floorplan, finishes and more to create the home you always dreamed of. And now, you’re armed with helpful tips to consider as you begin the process of selecting the perfect lot. If you’re building in Louisville, there are some great RJ Thieneman communities including Rock Springs, The Reserve at Fox Run and our newest development, The Woods at Landherr.
