Location, Location, Location: Where Should You Build Your Home?

By Julie Young, House and Home Feature Writer

Building a new home is an exciting opportunity to create something from the ground up. However, finding that perfect piece of land is easier said than done. While location remains the primary consideration when choosing your property, there are plenty of other things to keep in mind before breaking ground.

GO WITH A PRO

If you are planning to build a home soon, it is important to work with a real estate agent who specializes in helping folks find the perfect property that will meet their needs. These professionals not only have a list of available lots, but they also understand the nuances that come with a custom build.

No matter if you are building your first home, have a family, or are an empty nester, your real estate professional will be able to help guide you no matter if you want to put down roots in a rural space or wish to build in an established community. They will have details on area school ratings, the local amenities and how the homes in the area hold their value over time. Neighborhoods change and this information will be invaluable when it comes to planning your build AND when you put that dream home on the market years from now.

THE “S” FACTOR

There are four S’s that determine how easy or hard it will be to build a house and how much it will cost in the end. Your dream home can turn into a nightmare if you do not consider the slope, sun, soil, and sewer system associated with the property and the impact it will have on the final product.

Houses that are built on hills offer plenty of creative freedom in terms of layout and design (such as a walk-out basement,) but they also require more structural support. The sun’s position throughout the day will have an impact as to how you will situate your home on the lot. Do you want the sun streaming into your master suite early in the morning? Do you want dinner guests blinded by a scorching late-August sunset? Careful placement of your home will determine whether your property will feel like paradise or purgatory.

Soil varies from property to property, but experts say difficult soil leads to difficult drainage issues. What may seem perfect on the surface can change radically a few feet below, so make sure you work with a builder who is experienced in all types of soil conditions. Another consideration is the kind of sewer line that is on your home and what your sewage needs will be as you build. The depth of your sewer line can also make impact on the kind of basement you can have because everything must float downhill from your home.

By working with experienced professionals who can give you the lay of the land, you can feel confident that your build will be beautiful and give you plenty of enjoyment for years to come! n

Shutterstock.com